The Illusion of an Ideal Life. How to Stop Chasing an Imposed Dream and Become Truly Happy

Irina Dayneko — a practicing psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience. Author of a column in the magazine «Snob».

What hinders us from being happy?

If something bad constantly happens to us or, on the contrary, nothing happens in life, it is not the whims of fate but our beliefs and views on life formed in childhood and youth. They act as filters or blinders. And if these beliefs are not changed, nothing will change.

Sometimes, one correct question can change everything. In her book, the psychotherapist with 20 years of experience allows a glimpse into what happens in a psychotherapist's office.

The book features 39 unusual but real patients and 1 frank story from the psychotherapist:

— «I endure because I am afraid of being alone!» — How to overcome the fear of loneliness and build healthy relationships.

— «I absolutely don't want to do anything. Nothing at all.» — Where depression comes from.

— «My son is 30, and he doesn't have a girlfriend.» — What total control over children and fear of letting them go leads to.

— «I am 30 years old, and I don't know what I want to become when I grow up.» — Why more and more young people postpone adulthood.

— «Not like mom!» — How parents' personal lives can influence their children's choices.

— «I can't do it!» — How the fear of making mistakes hinders our growth and development.

— «Better to be alone.» — How to regain trust in people when you have been betrayed.

This book is about the search for the meaning of life, parental scenarios, a difficult childhood, unrequited love, and self-acceptance. This book is about people who considered themselves unhappy, found the strength to come for a consultation, and sought to understand themselves.