How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down Languishing - the state of mental weariness that erodes our self-esteem, motivation, and sense of meaning - can be easy to brush off as the new normal, especially since indifference is one of its symptoms. Languishers are more likely to feel out of control of their lives, uncertain about what they want from the future, and paralyzed when faced with decisions. Emory University sociologist Corey Keyes examines the ripple effect of languishing on our lives before deftly diagnosing the larger forces behind its rise: the false promises of the self-help industrial complex, a global moment of intense fear and loss, and a failing healthcare system focused on treating rather than preventing illness. Keyes' framework focuses on functioning well: taking simple but powerful steps to hold our emotions loosely, becoming more accepting of ourselves and others, and carving out daily moments for the activities that create cycles of meaning, connection, and personal growth.
