Top 10 Life Problems Everyone Faces—And How to Solve Them

Life is full of ups and downs, but without them, it wouldn’t be life. If everything always seems smooth, think again.

Challenges signal growth, pushing you toward new goals, milestones, or stages in life. Every person faces difficulties-that's part of being human, but crises can make us stronger, reveal hidden potential, spark new interests, and deepen our self-awareness. The good news? There's always a way out. When you hit a rough patch, don't panic-Lectera is here to help. We've identified 10 common problems everyone encounters sooner or later and offer practical advice on how to handle them-plus the best courses to support you along the way.

Problem #1: I can't find a partner or fall in love

Your friends are in happy relationships or married, but you've been single for years or stuck in a cycle of painful breakups. Your heart hasn't skipped a beat in a long time, dates feel like a chore, and the whole idea of romance seems exhausting. Sound familiar?

You're not alone. Ironically, despite endless dating apps and opportunities, finding a meaningful connection today is often harder than it was 20, 30, or 40 years ago. Consider these points:

• How much free time do you have each day, and how do you spend it? If you work until eleven at night, rush to the office again in the morning, and spend weekends playing airsoft, cooking, cleaning, or camping in the mountains, then it's no surprise that there's little time or energy left for dating and relationships. Don't be too hard on yourself-starting and maintaining a relationship requires a significant time investment. You either need to adjust your schedule or accept that, for now, other priorities take precedence. And that's okay-if staying late at the office feels more fulfilling than another Tinder date, there's nothing wrong with that.

• Are you afraid of intimacy? How do you react when you meet someone you like or when someone shows interest in you? Sometimes, we unconsciously avoid relationships or choose partners who aren't right for us simply because we know the relationship won't last-meaning no unpredictability, no uncertainty, and no emotional risk.

• What does "love" mean to you? Are you searching for something specific, or are you just waiting for it to find you? Before envying a happily married couple, consider that their definition of love might be different from yours. For them, it might be a practical, mutually beneficial partnership, while you may crave deep emotional intimacy or passion. Defining what love means to you will shape where and how you look for it. Otherwise, it's like wandering through a dark forest without a flashlight.

Which Lectera course can help? "Emotional Intelligence. Becoming Happier and Faster To Succeed," This course will teach you not only how to understand others by their facial expressions and tone of voice but also how to recognize and manage your own emotions and desires. By developing emotional intelligence, you'll gain better self-awareness, improve your decision-making, and approach relationships with greater clarity and purpose. This will help you navigate personal challenges and overcome hidden emotional barriers that may be holding you back.

Problem #2: I quit halfway through or fear starting something new

You've been dreaming about this for so long-getting that job, going to the gym, writing a book, or finally signing up for a macramé class. But once again, you lose interest, your motivation fades, or something else grabs your attention. Or maybe you don't even get that far-you brush the idea off before even trying, sticking to what's familiar.

Why does this happen? In both cases, fear plays a role. Some people admit it, while others don't even realize it. Consider the following:

• Recall past successes. Think of times when you not only started something but actually followed through. It has happened before-maybe in school, university, or an earlier job. What emotions did you feel? What was the outcome? Write down those moments of success and relive them. This is proof that you can commit and achieve your goals.

• Adjust your approach. Maybe you give up easily or hesitate to start because your expectations are too high from the beginning. But you wouldn't expect to paint a masterpiece the first time you pick up a brush, right? Lower the bar, change your methods, or restructure your schedule. Sometimes, the problem isn't lack of discipline-it's an unrealistic workload or inefficient planning.

• Reduce "fast dopamine." Ever wonder why checking your phone in the middle of work feels so satisfying? That's dopamine at play-the brain's reward chemical. Completing a task also triggers dopamine, but scrolling social media is the easier way to get it. Over time, your brain craves quick rewards, making it harder to stay focused on real goals. Try reducing screen time, blocking distracting apps during the day, or limiting binge-watching. When you do, your brain will naturally start seeking dopamine through productivity instead.

Which Lectera course can help? "Say No to Your Fears. New Life and New Results" will help you overcome the fear of change, manage stress effectively, and develop a positive mindset. You'll learn how to tap into your inner resources and stay motivated, making it easier to set and achieve your goals without self-doubt or hesitation.

Problem #3: I'm tired of learning and don't want to continue

Lifelong learning isn't just a trendy concept-it's a necessity. In today's world, building a successful career requires continuous learning. But let's be honest-it can be exhausting. Finding time to study between work and personal life is tough, and even students lose motivation sometimes. If you're feeling burnt out, try this:

• Focus on what interests you. Losing motivation to learn often comes from choosing the wrong subjects. Yes, some topics are unavoidable, but you can shift your focus to aspects that genuinely interest you or at least recognize their practical benefits. Learning something that feels irrelevant or unusable can make the process frustrating.

• Try quick online courses like Lectera. This isn't just self-promotion-it's a fact. Our courses are designed for busy people, so you can learn on your commute or during lunch breaks. Just 15-25 minutes a day is enough! You can also explore YouTube lectures or podcasts-there's no shortage of great content.

• Make learning enjoyable. Link your study sessions to something pleasant. Drink a cup of cocoa while learning, or treat yourself to a delicious meal afterward. This helps your brain associate studying with pleasure rather than stress.

Which Lectera course can help? "Education as a Skill. Tool for Development and Career Growth", where you will learn about different learning and self-study techniques, helping you integrate continuous learning into your life-without burnout. You'll create a personal skill map and master strategies for processing, retaining, and applying information efficiently.

Problem #4: I'm emotionally burned out and have lost interest in life

The world and the market are developing so frantic that it is challenging to keep up with them. The demands on specialists are constantly growing, and even our friends, relatives, and loved ones always demand something from us. Also, these crises include world epidemics, vitamin deficiency, and lack of sleep... In short, nothing is surprising in the fact that everyone has experienced emotional burnout. Do this:

• Make sure that this is burnout. Check yourself for the following symptoms: apathy, decreased interest in work and hobbies, decreased productivity, insomnia, frequent headaches and/or colds, anxiety, and increased appetite. Remember how long ago it began, and if this condition lasts more than a month, then the risk of burnout happening to you is very high.

• Urgently take a vacation-at least two weeks and full-fledged. Also, stop responding to messages outside of working hours right now, delegate some of the tasks to colleagues, if possible, reduce the workload, or talk to management about it. If nothing has changed after the vacation, then emotional burnout has turned out to be deep.

• Diversify your routine. Have breakfast once a week in a café, sign up for oil painting (it relaxes well), start exercising, eat a balanced diet, take bubble baths on Thursdays, and devise a number of other supportive rituals.

• Identify exactly what things led you to burnout. Is it the result of chronic stress due to the amount of household chores, dissatisfaction with your life, and constant quarrels with your boss or partner? Track down influencers and eliminate them.

Which Lectera course can help? The course "Alternative Lifestyle" will teach you how to slow down, manage stress effectively, and find a healthy work-life balance. You'll gain tools to restore your inner equilibrium and regain a sense of fulfillment in daily life.

Problem #5: I feel like a bad parent

Here's the most important thing you need to know: every parent in the world has, at some point, felt like a bad parent! It's completely normal. No one can be perfect 24/7, and no matter how much we try, our children will always find something to criticize when they grow up. But sometimes, everything feels overwhelming-daily tasks slip through your fingers, communication with your child falls apart, and if you're a young or inexperienced parent, the doubts can be even stronger. What can you do in moments like these?

• Remind yourself why this isn't true. Our brains tend to focus on failures while ignoring successes. Challenge those negative thoughts. Remember the times when you had to drive across the city at 3 a.m. in search of medicine? Or when you made them the most awesome costume for their school party? Or when you were watching cartoons together at Christmas, eating popcorn, and laughing? You've done more than you give yourself credit for. Lower your expectations and stop listening to societal pressure-there will always be someone telling you you're "not enough."

• Find new ways to connect with your child. Maybe your old methods of communication no longer work because your child is growing and changing. Relationships evolve at every stage, and as a parent, you have to rebuild those "bridges" again and again. Try something new-let your child choose a weekend activity, pick the movie for family night, or decide what's for dinner. Play a board game together or start a new hobby you can both learn.

• Follow core parenting principles: Be consistent and predictable. Your child should feel safe and secure at home. Find common ground and shared interests. Spend at least two hours a week focused solely on your child. Adapt to your child's unique traits-whether they are hyperactive, introverted, or something in between. Show empathy-not just to your child but to yourself as well. Give yourself grace.

Which Lectera course can help? "Family, Job, Hobby: How to Raise Kids and Keep Pace" covers different parenting techniques, creative games for engaging with your child, handling tantrums, fostering independence, and balancing work and personal life without stress.

Problem #6: I'm not getting promoted or feel stuck in my career

You've been with the company for five years-always busy, always putting in the effort-but nothing seems to change. Your tasks feel repetitive, promotions seem out of reach, and even when you bring fresh ideas and new projects to the table, your position (and, more importantly, your salary) stays the same. What can you do?

• Check if you've hit a "glass ceiling." A "glass ceiling" refers to an invisible barrier that limits career growth. Statistically, women experience this more often due to deep-rooted stereotypes, but anyone can face it. Sometimes, though, the real issue isn't discrimination-it's that there's simply nowhere left to grow in your current company. Are there higher positions available? Or have you already gained everything this workplace can offer? If so, the only solution may be to move on to a company where growth is still possible.

• Have a direct conversation with your boss. If you want a promotion, ask about it. Schedule a one-on-one meeting to discuss your career progress. Be tactful but clear-highlight your achievements, present concrete results you've delivered, and explain why you're ready for more responsibility. Ask what skills or qualifications you need to reach the next level. Showing initiative can make a big difference.

• Reevaluate and define your career goals. Maybe the problem isn't your company but a lack of direction. When was the last time you updated your career plan? Do you have a clear roadmap for where you're heading? If not, create one-define your goals, identify obstacles, and break your plan into smaller, achievable steps.

Which Lectera course can help? In the course "Career Marathon With Mila Semeshkina", Lectera's founder will guide you through a full career analysis, helping you build a strategic roadmap, monetize your skills, and secure that long-awaited promotion as quickly as possible!

Problem #7: I never have enough time and am always running late

"Oh, if only there were 30 hours in a day!" Sound familiar? You wake up, and before you know it, the day is over-yet your to-do list remains untouched. Deadlines pile up, and no matter how hard you try, you always seem to be behind. Here's what you can do:

• Start keeping a planner and use the Eisenhower Matrix. At the beginning of each week, write down all your tasks until Sunday (on paper, in a dedicated notebook!). Then, categorize them into four groups: A) Important and urgent; B) Important but not urgent; C) Urgent but not important; D) Neither urgent nor important.

• Delegate or postpone tasks from category D, and do the same with urgent but unimportant tasks (C) whenever possible. Focus on A and B first: handle A tasks in the morning and B tasks around midday-but no more than two major tasks per day to avoid burnout.

• Eliminate your "time wasters." These include your smartphone, constant email checks, chatting with colleagues about the weekend, endless tea breaks, or even inefficient work habits like excessive time spent searching for information. Set limits on distractions-use app blockers, track your screen time, and delegate tasks that eat up time without adding value.

• Improve your focus. Try the Pomodoro method-work intensely for 30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break (preferably walking around rather than checking your phone). Also, prioritize good sleep, proper hydration, and enough daily calories-fatigue, and lack of energy will only make time management harder.

Which Lectera course can help? "Time Management for Work," where you will learn practical techniques for optimizing work, improving planning skills, and setting priorities effectively. Plus, you'll learn how to relax properly so you stay energized and productive-feeling fresh as a cucumber every day!

Problem No. 8. I can't find a job

At some point, everyone faces the challenge of job hunting-and if it's your first time, the stress can be overwhelming. Resumes, interviews, and adapting to a new workplace are all difficult enough, but it's even more frustrating when you can't seem to move past the application stage or even get an interview. Here's what to consider:

• Does your resume align with the job you're applying for? Compare your resume with similar job postings and LinkedIn profiles of professionals in your field (or ask friends for feedback). What skills do employers look for? Which ones do you have? If a lack of experience is holding you back, try filling the gaps with internships, freelance projects, or personal achievements.

• Write a tailored cover letter for each job. No copy-pasting! A personalized cover letter helps catch the recruiter's attention. Be honest, highlight key strengths from your resume, and research the company beforehand. Show them how you can add value and why you're the right fit.

• Ask for feedback. If you've been interviewed but didn't get the job, don't be afraid to ask why. It might feel awkward, but a polite email or message requesting feedback can provide valuable insights into what held you back-and help you improve for next time.

Which Lectera course can help? The course "Finding Your Dream Job. A Complete Guide to Getting Hired" will teach you how to craft a standout resume, excel in various interview formats, write strong cover letters, and communicate effectively with recruiters and potential teams. Plus, you'll gain insights into identifying and maximizing your professional potential.

Problem #9: I have no money and can't seem to earn more

There are times when, no matter how hard you try, your budget just won't grow. Your income disappears into mortgage payments and utilities, savings are running low, and prices keep rising while your earnings stay the same. What can you do?

• Explore passive and one-time income sources. Sell unused items from your closet, offer your artwork or handmade crafts for sale, foster pets (if you're confident you can manage it), upload photos to paid stock platforms, or start monetizing a blog. Most hobbies can be turned into extra income with the right approach.

• Evaluate your career and current income streams. What's the real issue-have your expenses increased, or have your earnings dropped? Before rushing to find a second job or switching careers, talk to your employer about a salary increase. Discuss what you can do to justify a raise. Many companies prefer to invest in their current employees rather than risk losing them to another business.

• Reduce expenses and track financial habits. If money has suddenly become tight-or has always been-take a closer look at your spending. Make a shopping list before heading to the store, cut back on daily coffee or cigarette purchases, cancel unused subscriptions, and save on electricity by unplugging appliances when not in use. Small changes can add up over time.

Which Lectera course can help? The course "The Financial Awareness: Basic Tools of Capital Increase" will teach you practical tools to save money, budget effectively, invest wisely, avoid scams, and improve your financial stability-so your earnings and standard of living grow together.

Problem #10: I can't outperform my colleague or competitor

No matter how hard you try, there's always someone on the team who outshines you-whether in performance, achievements, or recognition. Yet, you're putting in maximum effort, and your goal is to grow within this company and exceed expectations. So why isn't it working? Here are a few possibilities:

• You may lack key hard or soft skills. It's easy to blame natural talent, but talent alone only accounts for about 20% of success-the other 80% comes from continuous effort and skill development. Take an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses. When was the last time you upgraded your skills? What do you feel is missing? Ask colleagues for feedback on how they perceive you as a professional-it might give you valuable insights.

• Impostor syndrome and self-doubt. Maybe your competition isn't as unbeatable as you think. If you struggle to accept praise or recognize your own contributions, start actively highlighting your achievements. In meetings, don't just say, "We did this as a team"-clearly state your role in the project. Confidently bringing attention to your efforts helps both your colleagues and superiors see your true value. Just be careful not to overdo it-balance is key.

• Shift your focus to teamwork. Do you really need to be "better" than someone else? In many companies, a strong team spirit matters more than individual competition. If your workplace values collective success, focus on personal growth and delivering high-quality work rather than fixating on outshining others. When you concentrate on improving yourself, success will follow naturally.

Which Lectera course can help? Any courses from our soft skills section, depending on what you are missing and by profession, for example, a course in sales or The Art of SEO.