I need help thinking of ways to improve my boring life

**frugalandsimple** · 03-15-2005, 06:48 PM

Today, I just realized how boring my life is. I must be the most boring 25yr. old I know. I work full-time (40hrs.) at a Supermarket which is better than NOT having a job. When I'm not working, I stay home. Partly, because I don't want to spend my money since I'm saving my money so I can move out of my parents' home and live in a Condominidium and I HATE driving except to a few places. I'm also naturally a homebody LOL I like being at home. I have pets (4 cats and 2 dogs) to take care but I feel like something is missing in my life. I'm not one to go out and socialize and I'm extremely shy. I watch movies but don't watch television because I can never seem to find anything I like that is worthwhile to watch that isn't a rerun of old shows. I LOVE to read books on certain subjects like pets or whatever strikes my interest. I don't really have any friends.

Today, I was thinking of taking a hobby of letter writing to relatives and any friends I may make in the future. A question about YMCA, do they have like community involvement/activities where you can get to know other people? There one being built near where I live and is scheduled to open in Fall 2005. I was thinking of joining the YMCA when it opens. I don't go to Church since I'm ALWAYS scheduled to work on Sundays. I don't want to volunteer because I don't want to get stressed out since my job at work is stressful as it is.

**forestdale** · 03-15-2005, 07:19 PM

Chrstn4ptsrc2me, your post made me smile.

When I was younger I was always out but since I'm older now I'm always at home, and I love it. I have so much to do here there are never enough hours for me.

But having said that, my son, who is 24 lives here with us. He goes out maybe one night in two weeks. He's saving to go to Canada soon. He established what's important to him, just like you have, and he's saving his money.

If moving out is what you really want to do, then there is nothing wrong with staying home and saving for it. In fact, I think it's a wonderful thing that you can identify what you want and then take steps to get it. Many young people, myself included, never "get'' that until they're older.

I take your point about being shy and I think joining the YMCA or a youth-oriented club would be a good move, but don't worry about it if you don't like it. You have your pets, you have hobbies and the most important thing to me is that you said you like being at home. My guess is, and I might have to duck if this is the mother coming out in me, that you might be wanting a boyfriend to share yur life and thoughts with. If that's so, the YMCA might be somewhere where you might meet someone suitable. I hope you join and you have a really good time there. But in the meantime, don't be too down on yourself. It sound to me like you've got it all worked out.

**pip** · 03-15-2005, 09:26 PM

I was going to suggest looking into community ed classes, if you have this available in your area. They can be pretty reasonable in cost and I have met some really interesting people this way. Do you have some parks close by that you could go to with your dogs? Maybe you'd start seeing other regular dog walkers that you might strike up a conversation with.(for starters, about dogs!

). I think the best way to get out of a rut is to shake things up a little. Just try something different that will put you by other people. Even new conversations can change things. Good luck!

**Lori Biever-Launder** · 03-15-2005, 11:27 PM

Believe it or not, volunteering can actually LOWER your stress! I work part time and volunteer for two causes I am passionate about: literacy and animals. I sepnd three hours a week doing these things (two for the animals and one for literacy). It would amaze you that such a small amount of time can make such a BIG difference in the lives of others!

My DH works more than full time (45 hours a week plus two hours a DAY in commute time

) and still has time to volunteer for the Boy Scouts.

Also, check out things going on at your local library. I work at a library and there are always things going on there to interest everyone. The best part is, it's FREE!

**BlessedMommy** · 03-16-2005, 08:35 AM

I agree with Lori about the volunteering. If you get connected to a volunteer position that is something you are passionate about, it shouldn't be stressful but relaxing. Something with animals does sound like a good match for you!

My experience with the Y is you might get to know people if you're in a class, but not neccesarily if you use the equipment on your own.

Have you checked out Saturday evening services if you want to go to church but always work on Sundays?
A big church here, Calvary Undenominational, has a service called Saturday Night Live. Large churches like Calvary have large singles groups, too, which are a great way to make friends.
(no, I am not affiliate with Calvary, I just know they and others have non Sunday options if you really do want to go.)

**Michele Annette** · 03-16-2005, 09:11 AM

I agree with everyone! Volunteering just a couple of hours is actually great fun! I was also going to suggest taking a walk outdoors. Walking outside makes you feel really good, especially when the sun is out. It's energizing and relaxing at the same time.

**Kimberlina** · 03-16-2005, 09:21 AM

I agree with PP_ check you r church for services on other nights. They may even have them during the week. We have a church around here that has services on Wednesday nights.

Also, there are sure to be some sort of community groups in your town you can get involved in. I live in a small rural town and even we have a promotional association that enocourages neighbors to be, well, neighborly! I get to volunteer in one-time and ongoing activities and meet people in my town. I would suggest checking your local Pennysaver (if you get that type of free weekly paper) because there are usually sections in them with things to do in your area and what is going on.

Also, go out for walks in your neighborhood- yo're sure to met people out on walks, even if it is only to say hi to in passing. You never know where that might lead.

**AmyMCGS** · 03-16-2005, 09:27 AM

I agree about volunteering and socializing, too, if that's what you're interested in. Those things don't cost money and won't interefere in your savings goals. And like Blessed Mommy said, there are several churches in my area that offer Saturday night or Sunday night services, along with programs for younger people. One local church even has services at a movie theater. You might want to check into that if you're interested.

If you're into writing letters, I have a volunteer program for you! My favorite cause is a program called ChemoAngels, in which we adopt chemo patients through the mail, and write cards/letters to them every week. You can also be a traditional angel, where you send gifts every week, too. I'm a card angel because it's less expensive. If you're interested, PM me and I'll send you more details.

I was a lot like you-- living with my parents after college and saving $$ and not going out much. I felt funny sometimes, like I was older than my age, if that makes sense. You sound like you have a good plan and you're working towards a goal-- that's great!