If Your Life Sucks Right Now, Rid Yourself Of These 18 Unhelpful Behaviors

18 Steps To Make Your Life Suck Less

A woman with a pin-up hairstyle and bold makeup is shouting or screaming with her mouth wide open and eyes widened. She is wearing a red blouse with a ruffled collar and has a stressed expression. The background is a plain, muted color.

Life isn‘t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes it downright sucks.

We feel miserable and as though we’re going nowhere in life. Our jobs aren’t satisfying. Our marriage is on the rocks. Money is so tight that we’re living from paycheck to paycheck. Kids are having problems. Everything is such a mess that the only way to describe our life is that it “sucks.” And we don‘t have a clue how to fix it.

Or perhaps none of these things are happening to you at all. You just have a deep, overwhelming feeling that your life sucks. Your life may actually be…okay. It’s just not at the level you thought it’d be at by now.

Whatever the reason may be, we all get to a point where we struggle to see the silver lining in our lives. We feel unfulfilled and alone. Usually, we’re able to get ourselves out of our funk, but at other times, it’s not so easy.

If you’re feeling stagnant and have no idea how to fix your life, continue reading. Eradicating these 18 behaviors will help you go from feeling helpless and purposeless to being in control.

1. Ignoring self-reflection.

A man with short dark hair and a beard leans against a train window, resting his chin on his hand and looking out. His reflection is visible in the glass, showing a thoughtful or pensive expression. The blurred scenery outside the window suggests the train is moving.

First things first: start with some self-reflection. If you’re going to make any lasting change in your life, you’ve got to tackle your mindset and negative thought patterns.

As you reflect, ask yourself three questions:

– What is going well in my life?

– What am I learning?

– Where do I go now?

The first question will help you get out of the “everything sucks” funk you’re in. It’ll help you look at the good things in your life.

After you start to see your cup as half full, instead of half empty, the second question will help you see the good in the truly sucky aspects of your life.

For example, your boss may be the most toxic human being on the face of the earth, but his micromanagement style is teaching you how not to lead your team when you become the boss.

The final question will help you get action-focused. There might actually be a part of your life that sucks. Instead of sitting down and just ruminating over it, figure out how to fix it. Work out what your next steps are.

2. Hating yourself.

A person with short hair sits at a table covered with a yellow tablecloth. They are wearing a pink strapless dress with a cartoon pattern and resting their head on their arms, which are crossed on the table. The scene appears to be outdoors with greenery and a red wall in the background.

Having self-love shapes how you view the world around you. When you don’t love yourself, it’s difficult to recognize the good things in your life.

In fact, you could be sabotaging the good things that come your way because you don’t believe you deserve them.

You need to work on improving your self-confidence and loving yourself. And one step you can take is to seek the support of a licensed therapist.

A therapist can help you identify the cause of your self-loathing. They can provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings and thoughts and offer valuable insights and guidance.

Together, you can work on building coping mechanisms to counteract negative thoughts when they arise.

You deserve love, happiness, and all the good things in life. Taking the time to love yourself and work on your self-confidence can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and how you navigate the world.

3. Getting stuck on the “why”.

A person with short, curly hair wearing a black jacket looks down while standing in front of a light gray brick wall.

When life feels like it sucks, it’s natural to get caught up in trying to understand why everything seems to be going wrong.

However, dwelling too much on the whys can often lead to a cycle of negative thoughts and self-blame. Instead, try shifting your focus to the how-tos.

Don’t get caught up in the reasons behind your current situation. Rather, concentrate on practical steps you can take to make things better. Break down your challenges into manageable tasks and create a plan of action.

By shifting your focus to how to make things better, you empower yourself to take control of your circumstances. While the whys might remain unanswered, embracing the how-tos opens the door to positive change and growth.

It’s not about having all the answers but taking one step at a time toward a brighter future. Focus on the how-tos and embrace the power of proactive problem-solving to bring positive change into your life.

4. Viewing setbacks as disasters.

A young woman is lying on a gray couch, looking pensive and slightly sad. She is wearing a light gray t-shirt and has her arms resting on her stomach. The background is softly blurred, with a glimpse of shelves and books.

Setbacks are an inevitable part of life. When everything feels like it’s going wrong, it can be difficult to see any silver lining. While you feel like this, it’s essential to adopt a growth mindset.

See these challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Take a step back and reflect on your setbacks—what can you learn from them? Ask yourself what lessons these experiences might hold for you.

There may be areas where you need to grow or develop new skills. Perhaps this situation is teaching you the importance of resilience or the value of having a support system.

Most setbacks carry an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. An obstacle can present a chance to gain valuable insights about yourself, your strengths, and areas for improvement.

Embrace these experiences as life’s teachers, guiding you toward personal development and resilience.

By analyzing your setbacks, you can discover patterns, habits, and attitudes that might be hindering your progress. Adopting a mindset of learning and curiosity can help you transform your setbacks into stepping stones toward a better future.

So, embrace the lessons your setbacks are teaching you. Use them as fuel to propel you forward when you feel like you’re in limbo.

Setbacks don’t define you. It’s how you learn from them and bounce back that truly matters.

5. Keeping everything bottled up.

A woman with long blonde hair is sitting against a textured gray wall. She wears a light gray turtleneck sweater and jeans, gazing thoughtfully with one hand resting on her head and the other on her knee. The lighting is soft and subdued.

One way to break free from negative thoughts and feelings is to get them out of your head. Keeping it all bottled up can intensify the feelings of despair and isolation.

Instead, consider reaching out to someone close to you and talking it over. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can provide a fresh perspective and a supportive ear.

Sometimes, simply verbalizing your challenges can help you gain clarity and find solutions you haven’t considered before.

Another way to release pent-up emotions is by writing about them in a journal. Pour your heart out onto the pages and let your thoughts flow freely without judgment.

This process can be incredibly cathartic. It can allow you to gain clarity and understanding of your emotions and experiences while also finding a sense of release.

Don’t keep everything bottled up inside. Getting your thoughts and feelings out can help ease the weight you’re carrying to create space inside for healing and moving forward.

6. Ignoring your physical health.

A woman in athletic wear performs a lunge exercise in front of a bookshelf with scattered books. She wears a blue sports bra, gray leggings, and blue athletic shoes. A metal chair is positioned against the brick wall background.

One way to shake off negative thoughts and feelings is through physical exercise.

Get up and get moving!

When you engage in physical activity, like going for a walk, dancing, or playing a sport, your brain releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins. They are natural mood boosters that help lift your spirits and bring a sense of calm.

Getting active also helps to take your focus away from negative thoughts and redirect it to something positive. It’s like hitting the reset button on your mind.

Exercise might not magically solve all your problems, but it can do wonders when it comes to putting you in a better mood and improving your overall well-being.

So put on your favorite tunes and dance, or go for a brisk walk at the park—whatever gets you up and out.

Give it a try, and you might just find that breaking a sweat can help you overcome those “my life sucks” moments.

7. Thinking in absolutes.

A man with a tired and contemplative expression looks toward the upper left. He has red, irritated eyes and wears a black knit beanie and a dark striped shirt. The background is a solid, muted gray.

Life is a wild ride. It has its ups and downs, just like a roller coaster. When life is going well, there’s a pep to your step. You’re on top of the world.

But when that roller coaster heads down, it can reach stomach-dropping lows.

Sometimes life sucks, and it’s natural to feel that way. But one thing you should remember during the tough times is that it won’t last. Change is always just around the corner.

So, when things get rough, take a deep breath and remember that it won’t be this way forever.

Reflect on what you can learn from this experience. Use it as an opportunity to grow and improve the areas of your life that need some attention.

Trust the process and keep pushing forward. Eventually, the tides will turn, and brighter days will come your way.

8. Playing the victim.

Two women are sitting together on a wooden bench. One woman with long, gray hair is talking to the other woman, who has long, black hair and is looking up with a thoughtful expression. Both are wearing beige coats. The background is slightly blurred but suggests an outdoor setting.

When life is throwing lemons at you, it’s easy to fall into the victim mentality. But here’s the thing, you have the power to take control of your life.

Sure, life might be going to hell in a handbasket, but that doesn’t mean you have to allow it. You can decide you won’t let life happen to you anymore.

Even when it feels like everything is falling apart, you have the power to shape your future.

So, take control of your life, and steer it in the direction you want it to go. Start by identifying the areas that need improvement. Then take small steps toward change.

Life may suck right now, but you’ve got the strength and resilience to turn it around. The power to change your story lies within you.

It all starts with the decision to stop being a victim and start being the hero of your own life story.

9. Repeating mistakes.

A woman in a formal black blazer and white shirt holds a piece of paper while leaning towards a man sitting at a desk, seemingly in a serious conversation. The man, dressed in a light blue shirt, sits facing her. They are in a brightly lit office.

Mistakes happen. We’ve all made them. They’re part of the human experience.

Taking responsibility for our mistakes and learning from them is a crucial step toward personal growth and positive change.

Granted, acknowledging where we went wrong and understanding the consequences of our choices can be tough. But it can also be incredibly enlightening and critical to ensuring we never repeat those mistakes.

Reflect on the choices and actions that brought you to your current situation. Think about what led you to make those mistakes and how you could have handled things differently.

What lessons can you draw from those experiences?

Armed with this newfound wisdom and clarity, commit to not repeating the same blunders. Commit to making better decisions going forward.

It’s not about beating yourself up or dwelling on the past; it’s about acknowledging your mistakes, understanding their impact, and using that knowledge to shape a brighter future.

So, learn, grow, and let your mistakes become stepping stones on your journey toward a life that doesn’t suck.

10. Believing your thoughts are your reality.

A bearded man with dark hair lies in a bathtub filled with water, looking thoughtfully upwards. Only his head and shoulders are visible above the water. The bathtub is white, and the man appears relaxed and contemplative.

When your life seems to be on a downward spiral, it can be easy for your thoughts to become a tangled web of negativity. It’s crucial you arrest your thoughts and regain control over your perspective.

Pause for a moment and discern between what you imagine to be true and what is the actual reality.

Our minds have a way of exaggerating the negative aspects of our experiences. Sometimes what we perceive might not align with the truth.

Challenge the negative narratives and assumptions that are clouding your perception of what’s happening. Remember, our thoughts are not always an accurate reflection of the truth.

Strive to see the big picture.

When you arrest your thoughts and question their validity, you gain the power to redirect your focus toward more constructive and hopeful paths. This can help you get a more balanced and positive outlook on life.

Your thoughts have the power to shape your reality. Choose them wisely. Embrace a mindset that empowers you to rise above the suckiness.

11. Expecting instant gratification.

A man and woman sit in a living room, each absorbed in their smartphones. The man sits on a dark sofa in the foreground, wearing a light sweater, while the woman is on another sofa in the background, partially obscured by a table and lit lamp.

Patience is a virtue that can be hard to practice. But one thing you need to remember is that real progress is rarely instant.

Whether it’s personal growth, career success, or building meaningful relationships, the journey toward improvement involves setbacks and slow progress.

Embrace the process, stay committed, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t change immediately.

Like a seed taking time to grow into a magnificent tree, the things worth having or achieving in life may require nurturing and perseverance.

Keep working toward your goals, even if progress seems slow. Small steps forward are still steps forward. Have patience and perseverance, knowing that every little action you take is contributing to your growth and improvement.

Your dedication and effort will eventually lead to positive change and a life that doesn’t suck.

12. Living without a game plan.

A woman with long, wavy hair sits in a modern living room with a puzzled expression, shrugging her shoulders. She is wearing a polka-dotted blouse. The background features a gray sofa, bookshelves, a lamp, and hanging lights.

If your life seems like a never-ending storm, it’s time for you to take charge. It’s time for you to create a game plan to make your life suck less.

Start by taking a look at your life and figuring out which area you want to focus on first.

What could you do to make this area not suck? What problem do you want to tackle head-on?

Once you’ve figured that out, set realistic goals to do just that.

To make sure your goals are achievable, break down your larger goals into small, manageable steps you can reach without too much effort.

Stay on track by keeping a record of your progress. Also, celebrate when you reach each milestone in your journey.

With a well-crafted game plan, small goals lead to big changes. As you take one step at a time, you’ll be on your way to creating a life that doesn’t suck.

13. Focusing on the bad.

A young man with brown hair, wearing a blue and green checkered shirt, sits against a tufted white background. He holds a smartphone to his lips, looking thoughtful and concerned.

It can be challenging to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you’ve hit rock bottom. But here’s a secret—hitting rock bottom can be a blessing in disguise.

Hitting rock bottom can serve as a powerful wake-up call. It can be the shake-up you need to get serious about rebuilding your life.

If you feel as though you’ve hit rock bottom, recognize the opportunity this experience is giving you. Focus on the good in this period of your life and be grateful for the things that don’t suck.

Because even in chaos, there are still blessings you can appreciate. Take a moment to acknowledge them, whether it’s a loving friend, a beautiful sunset, or a good cup of coffee. Look for the silver lining in your situation.

Celebrate your small victories. Give yourself credit for the resilience and courage you’ve displayed during this difficult time.

By shifting your focus to the positive, you create space for hope and healing. Embrace gratitude.

14. Burying your head in the sand.

A man with short brown hair in a dark suit and tie sits on a city staircase, looking pensive. The background includes blurred buildings and greenery.

Sometimes it’s easier to avoid our problems and pretend they don’t exist when everything seems to be spinning out of control. It can be tempting to just close our eyes and pray they magically disappear.

A more proactive approach is to face your problems head-on.

Take a deep breath, summon your courage, and confront the issues that are standing before you.

Ignoring them rarely works. Often it only makes the problem worse and gives it more power over your life and mind.

Remember, you have the power to overcome your obstacles and transform your circumstances.

By facing your problems head-on, you reclaim control of your life and set the stage for positive change. You go from being a victim to being a victor.

Embrace the challenges before you as opportunities for growth. Let them propel you toward a future that doesn’t suck.

15. Neglecting regular mental health days.

A man with a relaxed expression sits on a wooden balcony with his hands behind his head. He is wearing a loose, grey shirt. The balcony is adorned with plants, flowers, and greenery, and the background shows trees illuminated by sunlight.

Taking regular mental health days can be a lifeline to restoring your well-being. Who knows, perhaps not prioritizing your mental health is the reason that life feels overwhelming.

Set aside a day when you disconnect from social media and other distractions. Spend the time journaling and write about what you’re struggling with. Do something that gives you clarity and helps you process your thoughts and feelings.

Allow yourself to be vulnerable and honest with yourself. Use this as an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and refocus your energy.

Mental health days are not a luxury or a waste of time. They’re necessary for your overall well-being. Use them to help you navigate through the challenging times in life.

16. Living within your comfort zone.

A woman and a man are sitting on a couch, both holding red mugs. The woman, on the left, is pointing a remote control towards the TV. Both appear to be watching something on the TV. A clock and some home decor are visible in the background.

A good way to break out of your funk is to try something new. Stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences can be the breath of fresh air you need in your life.

It doesn’t have to be something grand or extravagant. You could do something as simple as try a new hobby, explore a different genre of music, or join a local community group.

Trying something new not only adds excitement to your days but also opens doors to opportunities and personal growth.

When you embrace the unknown with an open mind, you might discover passions, skills, and connections that you never knew existed.

Life is full of possibilities. By venturing into the unknown, you pave the way to a life full of adventure.

17. Isolating yourself from people who bring you joy.

A man in a black jacket stands on a wooden boardwalk by the sea, with a railing to his left and a clear sky in the background. The boardwalk stretches into the distance.

When life feels tough and everything seems to suck, spending time with people you genuinely enjoy being with can be a lifeline of support and positivity.

Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive, and uplifting individuals can work wonders for your well-being.

Just being around them can help you to stop feeling so isolated and remind you that you’re not alone.

Schedule some time to hang out with your support system. Share meaningful conversations, engage in activities together, and create cherished memories.

Embrace the warmth of your genuine relationships and lean on them for support.

Let the power of human connection remind you that even amid all the suckiness, you have love and laughter.

18. Not getting enough sleep.

A man with a beard and mustache sits on a couch in a dimly lit room, holding a TV remote in one hand and resting his head on the other. He is wearing a blue t-shirt and jeans. A bowl of popcorn is on the couch beside him. His expression appears bored or disinterested.

Are you getting enough sleep? If you’re not, that could be the reason you feel so hopeless.

Sleep deprivation can have a significant impact on your overall well-being and how you perceive life’s challenges.

When you’re not getting enough rest, your physical and mental health will suffer. This makes it harder to cope with stress and negative emotions.

Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress, irritability, and difficulty in managing emotions, making even the smallest setbacks feel overwhelming.

It’s during sleep that our bodies and minds recharge, repair, and process the day’s events. Prioritizing sleep and establishing a consistent bedtime routine can have a transformative effect on our outlook and overall quality of life.

So, create a conducive sleep environment, unwind before bed, and give yourself the gift of adequate rest.

You might be surprised at how much better you’ll be able to handle the suckiness of life when you’re well-rested and refreshed.

Finally…

A man with short, curly hair wearing a gray t-shirt is lying on a gray couch, looking thoughtful with his hands clasped in front of his face. He appears to be deep in thought. The background features wooden furniture and a decorative item on a shelf.

When life feels like it sucks, it’s important to remember that this is just a temporary phase. Each day brings new opportunities and a chance for things to improve. It’s okay to have a bad day; we all face challenges and setbacks.

Just like how it’s always darkest before the dawn, the toughest times often precede moments of growth and positive change.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Embrace the ups and downs of life, knowing that every low point is an opportunity for growth and there are better days ahead.