When the newness wears off, find something shiny.

Whether you’ve known me for years, or you’ve only read this blog once, you have probably already realized that my personality leans a bit toward, “Oh! Something shiny!”

The truth is, I know exactly what’s going on because I’ve thought it through a thousand times before, analyzing it to death.

For example… I adopted a dog while on a “quick” trip to Target two and a half years ago. I moved out of my parents’ house on what felt like a whim nearly a year ago. I bought my car in a matter of hours just a few weeks ago.

Before I did any of those things, I spent a significant amount of time researching, planning and daydreaming (rinse and repeat). The opportunity came. And I took it.

But then the newness began wearing off. Maggie inevitably ate a salad that gave her minor digestive fits and awarded her with a one night’s stay in the vet’s office. My lovely apartment ended up being louder than a Metallica concert. And my car… well, it’s still perfect (knock on wood).

So what do I do when things start falling apart? It seems that I always distract myself with something new. I became serious about running during the months after I graduated college and was feverishly searching for a job. I took up sewing to help mend my broken heart. I started writing to release my frustrations (because I hate people, remember?). And now, I don’t know what I’m feeling, so I’m gravitating towards music.

My question is this– is it healthy to find new hobbies to distract myself? Yes, they’re fun and exciting. But when the shiny wears off, will I still be left with the confusion I was facing before?

Deep for a Monday, I know. That’s what happens when you don’t write for a while. We’ll call this “emotional constipation.”