Part 3/7:
Reflecting on past years, the interlocutor notes a distinct shift in optimism and ease in the world. The years between 2016 and 2019 are remembered as a "golden era," a time perceived as less intimidating with manageable overall costs and a generally positive outlook on the future. This period now seems a distant memory, replaced by feelings of uncertainty and volatility.
For many, the daunting landscape resembles a video game whose difficulty has been inexplicably turned up. The stakes feel higher as the cost of living rises and daily news feeds are saturated with negativity, leaving many seeking tangible ways to navigate these challenges.