8 Steps for Overcoming Loneliness
Many clients come to me feeling lonely. Some have lost loved ones through death or divorce. Others have lost themselves and their ability or motivation to make new connections, and some have experienced a residential move or have jumped into a new career that has left them feeling isolated. Overcoming loneliness can seem a monumental task. The common factor seems to be clear, even when their stories are different. Loneliness stems from the discrepancy between what a person perceives as the ideal amount and quality of social interactions in their lives and the reality of their actual connections. You may be feeling the weight of that discrepancy and disconnection, too. However, whatever circumstances have caused the social isolation or perception of such in your life is relatively unimportant. What is important is how you deal with your current situation on a mental, physical, social, and spiritual level. And yes, all those aspects of your being play a part in your feelings of isolation and disconnect. 8 Steps for Overcoming Loneliness While loneliness is more complex than being physically and socially isolated, for this purpose, today, let’s talk about how to start building solid relationships. Relationship building may not solve all your problems or remove your feelings of loneliness, but it can greatly enhance your life, and it begins with small, brave steps: Admit you’re lonely This might sound obvious, but it’s often the hardest step. It’s vulnerable to admit that we need others, especially in a world that celebrates individualism. But vulnerability is the birthplace of connection. Reach out, even when it feels awkward Call the friend you’ve been meaning to check in on. Join the group at church or sign up for the book club. Start small, but start somewhere. Relationships are built, not stumbled upon. So, take [...]
