Navigating Loneliness





Step 1



"At some point in life, you may feel lonely, isolated, and yearn for companionship; for some, this might even be a constant state of being. There might be a time when you find yourself sitting somewhere, contemplating life, and observing a person bustling with a group of friends. In that moment, you might ask yourself, 'Why am I all alone, even though I've tried to connect with so many people?' With a quick internet search, you will find numerous forums where people share how lonely they feel. Some even refer to loneliness as the pandemic of modernity.





It's important to resist the temptation to compare your journey with others. Yes, some individuals might be surrounded by friends while you are not. However, it's crucial not to equate mere proximity with genuine camaraderie; the authenticity of friendships lies beyond surface appearances. In moments of despair, your eyes may deceive your brain, and emotions might rush into creating false realities.


Remember that each person possesses a unique blend of personality traits and preferences. While some thrive amidst the vibrancy of social interactions, others find solace in solitude. Reflecting on my past, I realize I always chose different paths from the rest of my friends, and I did this on a subconscious level to bring out my authentic self. Up to now, I still haven't concluded whether I chose this path in my life due to nature, nurture, or a combination of both. Whatever the reasons, embrace your individuality and trust in your worth. It's preferable to stand alone with integrity than blend into a crowd whose values diverge from yours. Avoid seeking validation from those who disregard your worth or expecting friendship from those unwilling to reciprocate respect. I liked a quote posted by hustle_4_better on Instagram, which said, 'Never beg someone to be in your life. If you text, call, visit and still ignored, just walk away. It is called self-respect.'


However, it's still important to engage in introspection by asking some important questions:

1-Are my actions inadvertently alienating others? Solicit honest feedback from trusted individuals, embracing constructive criticism without offense.

2-Do my interests align with opportunities for social connection? Assess your accessibility and interpersonal demeanour, ensuring approachability while respecting personal boundaries.


Keep in mind that amidst loneliness, remain steadfast in your pursuit of meaningful connections. Remember that how you are feeling during this moment in time does not define your existence. Seek professional support if feelings of isolation escalate, and explore community groups that resonate with your values and interests. Embrace the notion that change is inevitable, and better days lie ahead.


Finally, remember that in moments of despair, nudge yourself into remembering that you are resilient and equipped with the resourcefulness needed to pave your path to living a good quality life. You are not alone! There is a brighter tomorrow! Let us keep in mind the words of the French Philosopher René Descartes, 'Conquer yourself rather than the world.'