Dream About Working In Restaurant Smelling Food Finding Romantic Interest

Jim, your recurring dream about working in restaurants where you used to work is quite profound and multifaceted. The setting of a restaurant, with its familiar smells and environment, could represent a longing for the past or a time in your life when things felt more stable or familiar. The sensory detail of smelling the food suggests that these memories are vivid and possibly comforting, indicating a deep connection to that period of your life. The presence of a girl you knew and wanted to be with romantically introduces a layer of unfulfilled desire and perhaps unresolved emotions. This girl could symbolize not just a romantic interest, but also a larger yearning for connection and intimacy, which you might feel is lacking in your current life. The fact that you never find her in your dream could reflect feelings of frustration and the elusive nature of what you're seeking, whether it's a relationship, a sense of purpose, or emotional fulfillment. Given your current life circumstances, including significant stressors such as major career changes, financial stress, and health issues, this dream might be your subconscious attempting to process these challenges. The restaurant setting could also be a metaphor for nourishment and sustenance, suggesting that you are in need of emotional or psychological 'nourishment' during these tough times. Moreover, the recurring nature of this dream and the frequent anxiety you experience upon waking indicate that these themes are persistent and troubling for you.