DEAR ABBY: I don't know what's wrong with me. I work in a school, so I have the summers off, but I can't relax and enjoy myself. Every day I constantly think about having to go back to work when summer is over, and I dread it. I also find myself dwelling on past mistakes I have made and regrets about things I did or didn't do. As a result, it prevents me from enjoying the present.
Do other people have this problem? Have you any advice to help me stop thinking about the past and the future and how I can enjoy the here and now? -- CAN'T RELAX IN NEW JERSEY
DEAR CAN'T RELAX: Nothing lasts forever, including summer vacation. However, may I point out that if you have a job you "dread" returning to, it may be time to consider finding a new one?
As to past regrets spoiling your present, a way to stop dwelling on those negative thoughts would be to say aloud to yourself: "That was then. This is NOW. I'm wiser now." Then make a conscious effort to reorient yourself to the present. I'm not saying it won't take vigilance and practice, but hearing yourself speak the words may snap you back to where you belong.