Sometimes, Winterglen, it seems like the harder we try the worse things turn out for us. I know I've had that experience. I'm an older person now. And one of the benefits of being older, I find, is that I no longer have to worry about doing everything right. People expect less of older folks. And, since I perceive that people expect less of me as an older person, I find that I no longer worry about how well I do. However it turns out is just how it turns out. It takes away allot of the pressure.

Of course, when you're young, it's much more difficult to be nonchalant about your performance. And if what you're hearing from those around you is: why can't you be more like other people who are good, productive adults, this just reinforces what you already believe about yourself. No one's self-concept can withstand that kind of pressure.

I don't really have any great suggestions for you. All I can say is something I imagine you've heard before: you don't have to measure up to anyone else's standards. You're fine just as you are... well... maybe you could drive a little slower? (Just a gentle jest, there.) But truly, you are fine just as you are. You don't have to measure up to other peoples' standards. If you can, somehow, find a way to convince yourself of that, everything will seem to go much better for you I believe.

The other thought I will just offer here is: perhaps the things you're doing simply aren't things you really have much interest in. If so perhaps you're just going through the motions. And since you're just going through the motions, perhaps you're not really making as much of an effort as you could if you were really committed to what you're doing. Depression can also be a contributing factor here. It's difficult to make a solid effort when you're mired in the fog of depression.

Best wishes...