Are atheists more successful in life than religious people? why?

I don't know if atheists are generally more "successful" than theists. Or happier. Or anything. By and large and looking at a large enough group, I think it all averages out.

But you want to make some changes in your life. In general, you can't go from zero to where you want to be in one easy step.

A lot of what you seem to want revolves around switching from "magical thinking" (all religions, and such new-agey fluff like the secret) to critical thinking. There are a lot of online resources to help you, like

http://philosophy.hku.hk/think/

http://www.criticalthinking.org/aboutCT/define_cri...

and possibly more.

Next, your job thing. You can learn to use computers, if it is relevant to your needs. You've learned to use them for email and internet. The only thing stopping you is you.

But is it really feasible when your own life is still a mess to set up a home job where you try to help others? Aren't you biting off more than you can chew here? Perhaps you could first try a regular job (I don't know what your skills are), saving some money, and then try for the home thing.

And finally, don't be afraid of leaning on your family - you've raised your son to be a successful man, he can and will help you out.

Successful Atheists

"ATHEISM FAILS AGAIN"

Kid, atheism isn't a doctrine, it's simply the alternative to theism which is also not a doctrine... they are both nothing but religious positions regarding the existence of invisible sky critters.

" I can't use a computer except for internet & e-mail"

And atheism is to blame?

LuLz

It sounds like you want to blame something or someone...

Take responsibility for your own actions...

Sometimes in life shiit just happens... get over it.

1. There is NO evidence which points to an imaginary psychopath in space suffering cerebral palsy, uncontrollably waving his arms about, creatin' stuff outa nothin' for no discernable reason.

2. Just by the SIMPLE act of looking around anyone can see that shït happens to all and sundry regardless of ANY thought, deed or circumstance, exactly as if there was NO invisible space chappie pulling any strings at all.

The world works exactly as you'd expect if there were no god.

Reality is a tough gig... it's not for the faint-hearted.

~

Not at all. Good for anybody who can be successful! Most religious people believe that to covet is to sin so no we are not jealous. You seem to have some funny ideas about religious people. Additional question: Why do atheists believe that they are so amazingly intelligent?

I went through a similar thing and all I can say is I am happier, healthier and better off than I was. Superstition just plagues you with guilt and fear. Relying on yourself, taking responsibility for yourself and not some magical solution is hard, but just keep at it.

Visit sceptics websites, and exchristian.net if you need support. But always ask yourself "why do I believe this, where is the evidence..."

Good luck!

(EDIT: It does sound like you may have some health issues too, that you aren't completely over your PTSD/depression. Leaving superstition behind is not a miracle cure, but it might help you think a little more clearly)

Listen to the wise Zebra!

No more magical thinking

Take things in little steps, small achievements

Don't be too proud to ask for help - family will be pleased to lend money if it's for something like a computer course or job training

Good luck

i don't think it makes a difference. success is kinda based on personality and decision making.... and "bad luck" doesn't have to be some cosmic divine intervention. could be that something terrible just happened while things were bad. and i'm pretty sure god isn't going to give you a million dollars, no matter how hard you pray

Your problem is not a matter of theism, nor is it relevant to religious beliefs or a lack thereof. The trouble lies in your anxiety and how it is related to your PTSD (possibly even Bipolar Disorder?).

It does not depend on beliefs who will be successful- The one who works hard succeeds.

Religious people get treated as weirdos where i'm from