[kaskakokos]

I find little meat in life that is offered as standard.

I mean: work, produce, consume, agree and enjoy the show (only if you keep dancing and only as long as it lasts).

Where is the joy? How much joy am I neglecting to follow standards I have not chosen?

I am looking for alternatives such as more dedication to my people, hobbies and joyful knowledge, finding that this has little overlap with the expected way of life.

[nvusuvu]

I find the most joy in meaningful relationships I have fostered with my wife and kids over the last 18 years. That joy is further enrichened and deepened by my unwavering belief in a plan created by God to preserve those relationships after this mortal life. I also find joy when I help other people, recently GED tutoring, bringing meals to those in need, and helping elderly neighbors with yard work.

[giantg2]

I hope my family becomes a source of joy. The responsibility of supporting them is crushing right now.

[semicolonandson]

It might be worthwhile to figure out what brings you joy by randomly asking yourself how you are feeling from 1 to 10 throughout the day. You might be surprised, in that your joy rating in the moment may deviate heavily from what you predict. With this data you can start prioritizing activities and trying to change your situation.

[OnACoffeeBreak]

I'm in a similar boat. I'm middle aged and have always struggled with meaninglessness of life. I know it's up to me to create meaning and purpose, and I've struggled with doing so over the decades.