010. Same Problem. Different Flavor - A Fresh Perspective on Life's Problems.

Years ago, during a walk with my dog, I found myself searching for answers. I had recently relocated to a new city in hopes of growing my startup, but things weren't going so well. 

I was constantly struggling financially, sinking deeper into debt with each passing day. Leaving behind the circle of friends I had fostered over the years left me feeling down and lonely most days. Uncertainty about the outcome of my business weighed heavily on my mind, fueling my anxiety constantly.

This stark contrast to my life just a couple of years prior was hard to ignore. Back then, a year out of college, I had saved up enough to purchase a house where I rented out rooms. I even listed the entire house on Airbnb during game days, covering my mortgage and then some effortlessly. 

I had a gym and close friends there that I enjoyed not only working out and hanging with. I also played in a local softball league that kept me active and social. Not to mention I was never lacking for a date. 

Reflecting on those times just a short time prior, life seemed simpler and easier. 

However I have to remind myself that despite the ease of life in contrast to my current state of affairs, there were still underlying issues. I grew to despise my job, dragging myself to work daily. 

My house was comfortable, but I didn’t love it. Dealing with renters and Airbnb guests presented constant challenges. My social life was good, but the limited options of events and things to do in town left us complaining more than not. Plus, my quest to find a wife persisted for years long after I moved. 

As I mulled over all these thoughts during my walk, the concept of “flavors” came to mind. 

Here’s the premise: the problems we face today are simply different flavors of those we’ve encountered in the past. 

Of course, there are extremes, and some issues are more desirable than others. Naturally, having an excess of funds in your bank account is preferable to struggling to make ends meet. Yet, at the core, both scenarios present challenges that require resolution.

The common denominator in life's challenges is often anxiety, stress, and uncertainty. And it's the circumstances that dictate the flavor. In essence, it's the same problem, just presented in a different way.

So, while we may prefer some "flavors" over others, recognizing that most issues are variations of the same fundamental ingredients can offer a fresh perspective on life's problems.

Whether we're dealing with financial strains, social dilemmas, or career uncertainties, understanding that these challenges are simply different flavors of life's struggles can help us navigate them with more clarity and provide us with a little more resilience.

Same problem, different flavor. That’s all there is to it.