You haven’t heard of it? It’s called Perpetually Pissed Off Syndrome. It’s not a recognized medical diagnosois, I made it up. I’m not sure if this is a highly sensitive person trait or not, but it’s really true for me! It can strike anyone at any time. It’s not fatal, but it can shorten your lifespan.

The primary symptoms are unrelenting cynicism and little patience for anyone or anything. PPOS will make your life miserable!  I’m bothered by the seemingly lack of caring of others to do what they are supposed to do. I spend countless hours correcting other people’s mistakes. It’s frustrating that it’s impossible to talk to anyone.  If you do, it’s a miracle that the problem gets fixed the first time. Can you relate to this?

I’ve often pondered why life isn’t easier. Wouldn’t you think that, as I get older, life would get simpler and things wouldn’t bother me as much? My wisdom, experience, and sense of perspective should inoculate me from the problems of today’s society. Not necessarily! With each passing year, there are new challenges and all kinds of changes that come my way. Just when I think I have myself together, and things are going well, something seems to upset my apple cart!

I’ve finally realized the toll it is taking on me. I have been feeling off kilter for years, and my attitude is increasing my stress level, lowering my immune response, and driving everyone crazy! In the long run, PPOS wreaks havoc on your relationships and does nothing to promote your mood and well-being.

The cure for PPOS is the awareness that you’re sabotaging yourself and the realization that NOW is the time to surrender the fantasy that “life should be easy and perfect.” As much as it would be nice if it were true, it’s just not a realistic belief to have. Life is a series of highs and lows. The trick is to keep yourself on an even keel, whether you’re at high or low point in your life.

The best way to maintain your equilibrium is to not be bothered by everything. We have to selectively pick our battles and then having the strength and confidence to believe that we can handle anything that comes our way. You develop that strength by overcoming obstacles and learning lessons from them. The more “victories” you have, the more you’re able to withstand the “slings and arrows” of life that we all face.

This is easier said than done, but I’m trying to believe that people are doing their best and that things will eventually work out. If not, I have to keep myself from getting upset and deal with the situation in a calm, cool, and collected way. Am I being realistic about myself? I doubt it! I’m definitely a work in progress and I’m trying very hard to do so!

I’m getting better at accepting the ups and downs, but I get off track sometimes, which results in a relapse of my PPOS. What about you? How do you maintain your equilibrium? Do you ever get PPOS? If so, what are your triggers? Do you find yourself constantly wishing that life was easier? Do you accept the hard times and try to learn as much as you can from them? I’m interested in any thoughts or comments that you have.

If this resonated with you, someone you care about might need it too. Don’t wait—share it with them now. A few words at the right moment can make all the difference.