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The Never-Ending Cycle of “The American Dream”
I wake up. It’s Monday. I feel dread. My first thought: A whole week is ahead of me, and Friday seems oceans away.
I wake up. It’s Tuesday. I feel dread. My first thought when the alarm goes off: I can’t get up. Somehow, I robotically muster the strength to get up and go to work, though.
I wake up. It’s Wednesday. I feel dread. My first thought: It’s almost Thursday, which means Friday is closer. I stare at the ceiling in the dark, wishing I could close back my heavy eyelids.
I wake up. It’s Thursday. I feel despair. My first thought: I feel like I am dying on the inside. I cry internally from the dissatisfaction I feel deep in my soul.
I wake up. It’s Friday. I feel a subtle relief. My first thought: I can’t wait to get off from work today. I don’t want to get up, but I do because it’s Friday; freedom is only hours away.
I wake up. It’s Sunday. I feel anxiety as the day draws to its demise. My last thought: Why do I continue doing this? Then, I go to sleep.
Reflecting On The Rat Race
How many of you can relate to this poem in some form? I know I have been here and have felt every single one of these feelings years ago when I wrote this.
I called this poem “Insanity” because often, our pursuits – that never cease – lead us nowhere except to more empty feelings, homes full of stuff, and pockets empty or full of money to be utilized for more consumption.
“A rat race is an endless, self-defeating, or pointless pursuit. The phrase equates humans to rats attempting to earn a reward such as cheese in vain. It may also refer to a competitive struggle to get ahead financially or routinely” – Wikipedia
Questions To Ask Yourself
Am I stuck on the train of endless pursuit?
What am I trying to accomplish?
After I accomplish my goal(s), what then?
More On The Sunday Scaries – Healthline
“Sunday scaries might sound like something from a children’s book, but don’t let its cute name fool you. The feeling of doom that shows up the evening before another week begins can make you miserable and can suck the fun out of your remaining free time.
A form of anticipatory anxiety, the Sunday scaries involves nervousness and dread about something that hasn’t happened yet: the week ahead.
As the minutes pass on Sunday afternoon, you’ll probably notice some anxiety symptoms building up, such as:
Stomach issues
Restlessness
Irritability
A vague sense of unease
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Despite its name, the Sunday scaries can pop up any day of the week, depending on your schedule. If you work or attend class Tuesday through Saturday, for example, it’ll probably show up on Monday night.
We’re pretty much stuck with Sundays, but these strategies can help prevent stress from coming along with them.” – Healthline
My Morning + Evening Stacks: For Relaxation
What Is The Truth Of My Current Situation
Inching Closer to Decade Number Three
Desires Make You A Servant
Poetry: Who Am I?
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.