Has anyone else gone through years where it felt like life just wouldn’t let up?

I don’t usually make posts like this, but I could really use some perspective from people who’ve lived through seasons where it feels like life just won’t let up.

Since 2019, life has felt like one setback after another.
I’ve been laid off five times despite working hard and continually trying to grow as an architect. I’m now trying to build my own architecture practice while applying for full-time jobs to stay financially stable.

I’ve spent years working toward licensure and have passed three of my architecture exams, but I recently failed another after hundreds of hours of studying. I’m getting back up and taking it again, but it’s discouraging.

I’m also preparing for major double-jaw surgery later this year after years of dealing with sleep-disordered breathing and other health issues. I wear a CPAP every night, exercise regularly, eat well, go to therapy, take my medications, and genuinely try to take care of myself because I want to give myself the best chance at a good life.

And just two days ago, my partner, Clark, and I had to say goodbye to our beloved cat, Pippy, after she was diagnosed with an aggressive spinal lymphoma. She was only six years old. She was the sweetest, chattiest little tuxedo cat and my nightly cuddle buddy. The house feels unbearably quiet without her.

The hardest part isn’t any one of these things by itself. It’s the accumulation.

Every time it feels like I’m finally getting some momentum, something else seems to happen. Another layoff. Another health challenge. Another loss. Another obstacle.

Despite all of that, I keep trying. I work out. I spend time with friends. I play music. I study. I go outside. I try to notice beauty. I volunteer. Therapy is on hold until I get health insurance again. I keep showing up because I genuinely want to build a meaningful life.

I’m not looking for pity, and I’m not giving up.
I’m just…really tired.

Has anyone else gone through a prolonged stretch where it felt like life kept knocking you down despite doing everything you reasonably could? Did things eventually turn around? I’d really appreciate hearing from people who’ve been there, because right now it feels like I’m putting everything I have into moving forward while life keeps finding new ways to push me backward.