Sometimes, you come to a point in life where you realise that it’s gotten a little out of control. Perhaps, you might even admit that it’s now unmanageable in a few areas.

Rather than ignore this reality when it smacks you in the face, it’s better to accept that and decide to do something different.
In this article, we provide some suggestions on how to manage a life that’s not as it should be.

MAKE A TRUTHFUL LIST OF YOUR PROBLEMS

List your problems down on paper. The process of finding a pen and paper to write with instead of using your smartphone is different. Even old fashioned these days. But that’s also useful because it stays with you.

If you have more than a couple of problems, we’d suggest letting a stream of consciousness overtake you to write them all down quickly. Don’t try to organise them into categories as you jot them down because you could lose your train of thought. If you feel the need, rewrite the list later by category if that helps to stay organized.

Now highlight the problems that you feel are the worst or simply out of control.

DO YOU HAVE A FINANCIAL PROBLEM?

If your spending is erratic, you’re unable to save, or worst, going into debt, then you’ll need to address that by starting a budget.

Use the envelope system to divide up your money to avoid overspending again. Use automatic bill payments to avoid late fees by getting every bill paid on time.
Make agreements with companies or people that you owe on what you can afford to repay each month based on your budget. Don’t offer more than you can afford, even if pushed to do so. Better to pay less, consistently, than miss payments.

DO YOU HAVE AN ADDICTION PROBLEM?

Some people with addiction issues choose to attend Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous or another similar meeting. Talking and sharing confidentially with likeminded people on a weekly basis is very helpful. The AA-type programs are all focused mainly on not drinking or using your addiction in any way, one day at a time. By focusing on this daily ritual, it helps to begin to make life more manageable again.

However, for some people who realize that they need an in-patient solution, a mens addiction recovery program is going to be a better choice. Being able to stay sober or not under the influence of anything for a few days before attending is usually essential. The idea with these programs is they give you the tools to stay clean and create a life that works for you, addiction-free.

DO YOU HAVE A RELATIONSHIP PROBLEM?

Do you have a hard time getting along with people? While this could be related to addictions or other problems, it might be the sole issue. If you get angry easily and find it difficult to control your temper and it’s affecting your life, there are anger management programs that teach you how to control it.

Also, it’s worth noting that with some friendships or relationships, they may fundamentally involve a clash of personalities which will never be amicably resolved. In which case, walking away sometimes makes the most sense and can be the most healthy choice.
Whatever the main issues in your life, there’s usually always a solution (often several) that will help to resolve them. It’s just a matter of finding the right one for you.