I was working on some project ideas for my job at home yesterday and it took more than six hours to get it done to an acceptable level. I initially had estimated a finish time of around 3 hours, so spending 6 hours left me hungry, grumpy and sleepy all at once. What's more is that the proposal probably needs a lot more work and even if it is accepted, it'll only create an avenue for even more work to be done.

What am saying is that it isn't a very pleasant process to be honest. Sure, one thing that kept me going for more than six hours straight was the level of interest I had on the project (something that reflected a personal touch). Yet I was clearly frustrated at a point when it seemed like the ideas weren't just going to come. It isn't an uncommon feeling, but if there were no stakes to the project and no interest, I probably would've abandoned it. I definitely won't sit six hours straight at least on something that scarcely interests me.

It is difficult these days to conceptualize the real consequences of frustration, as we don't just stick around for very long. Frustration that leads to negative action or inaction is quite the bother. I once begged a friend not to drop our of college due to frustration with his lecturers. Today he is about done with his PhD program and preparing for the next stage of his life. Not to mention he is quite satisfied with what he has accomplished so far.

The one thing I hate about a financial crisis is that it takes away our ability to see the bigger picture. Hierarchy of needs and all that explains it nicely. I now know why my parents didn't save much post retirement, it is because they simply couldn't, not when responsibilities and obligations flooded their faces. Many people lighten the load by reducing the responsibilities placed on themselves but some are inescapable if you really care.

These will all be unacceptable excuses though should we be left without respite when we hit a major financial crisis. There are those who defy the circumstances of their lives and environment to make a positive impact on themselves and their environment. The key to overcoming financial challenges will always be to increase our capacities rather than complain or being overtly dependent on others. I finished the first phase of my proposal and it felt good. Am aware that this is by no means the end of frustration but it does present a solution.

Away from me the theme is the same. It is amazing the individual stories of some of my colleagues at work. I have realized that everyone is likely going or has gone through some form of challenges and no one has it particularly easy. Stories of resilience, persistence, determination, and long-suffering (patience) are perhaps the most common themes in the life stories of those I've come across in my environment.

Conclusion

It always doesn't seem to be working until it works though. I try to keep my emotions in check these days. It is one thing that keeps me consistent good days and bad. Emotions are but temporary after all.