Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity

Seneca is credited with that simple statement. I agree, but think it needs to add in a bit about timing. I've been lucky to find some people I trust with my secrets, survive multiple accidents, get a job with absolutely no skill-set, guess the right answers on exams, etc. But my timing has almost always been off. Add in that I operate faster than most people, giving in to a gut-feeling that gets me in trouble.  I trusted the recruiter for a job that I would be able to progress through the company. I've been at the same position for four years. I've applied to outside jobs a few days too late. I've been in need to talk somebody, but it's been at the wrong time of day/week.  When a more appropriate or even reasonable time comes up, I've either given up on the problem or come to a conclusion on my own.  I depend on myself heavily, almost to the point that I just don't talk about things at all.

But the whole timing thing is evident in two areas, career and social.  It has taken me forever to even think I have nailed down a potential career. And now I need further training. After being out of school for so long, I have forgotten so much that I can't apply for jobs in my undergraduate degree. I considered getting a quicker certification, like pharmacy tech/radiologist/anything with a year training, and using my limited connections to find something better to do than my current job. I'm bored and burned out.

On the social front, I've trusted people very quickly. Most of the time I get burned. Sometimes, just a little singed. So then I go into auto-pilot, and miss out on some amazing people. When I notice that there might be something good out there, I trust the wrong person and the whole cycle starts anew. Sure, I have the friends/family that have been there, but I can't keep leaning on them as heavily as I have. One more session of me bad-mouthing a co-worker I thought was ok, and my long term friends might start charging me by the hour. I've developed feelings for guys that weren't available or interested. A few later became single or interested, but the timing was just not right. At times, I've felt cursed.
At least after having the cycles happen so often, I can bounce back a little quicker. But boucing back leads to me wanting to try again (in making new friends or romantic connections). Some days, I think I'd rather hurt than feel nothing. It's annoying to be an optimistic cynic-my term for my behavior.
Hopefully my luck, or timing, or whatever will one day catch up to my dreams and wishes. If not, I am content with my current standings and short-term personal goals. I just know contentment is not enough in the long run. I dream of my definition of an idyllic life, knowing that I need some better luck to find some of the treasures.