Finding Meaning ... it's personal

I've been interested in Philosophy for some time.  I just read Making Meaning in an Age of Collapse.  
It has some very interesting points based upon the experience and observations of the information providers.  Which I believe is VERY important to remember when reading the opinions of others.  I work to remember that I am not familiar with all the author's personal history and experiences.  Also, is their viewpoint based on the material or something more ethereal?  My most important question, however, is how does it apply to me?

I've noticed that I have to do a personal reset every so often if my attitude needs adjusting or I have gotten too caught up in "what's going on".  I want to do the personal reset because I'm not happy with where I am at the time.  Now, my perspective is one of an introvert who loves looking inward, analyzing myself, where I am, if I'm happy, and doing something about it if not.

I love this description:
Confident Introvert

I believe I have much in common with many on this site.  I'm considered "eccentric" and don't always fit in many popular situations.  I don't mind though.  I'm happy...generally with myself and where I am on my journey.  I'm happy that my contributions are making a difference, whether I can yet see them or not.  I'm still moving forward and that is important to me.  

Being happy with who you are isn't something we are taught in our current society.  Quite the opposite, in fact.  Marketing has made an effort to ensure we are not happy so we can be sold the latest whatever.  Paying attention to what I do have control over helps me.  I can control my own thoughts.  Sure, I have my not so good days but fewer than good ones.  It helps to maintain my focus inward instead of on all the bad things going on outside my sphere of influence.  They will sort themselves out, it's only a matter of time.  Meanwhile, I can work on myself and my situation.  Every improvement I make works towards making everything better because when I do better, I contribute to others doing better, and so on.  It works for me.