Coping with Loneliness - Part 2
In my big disappearing act last year, I totally missed
that one of my YouTube videos How to Cope with Loneliness went viral. (Ok, not viral viral, but like 36k views which is a lot for ME). And it made me realize there are so many of us that struggle with loneliness, and while it’s perfectly normal, it can also be very very tough.
In that video, I shared 5 practical ideas to cope and today I want to expand and share 5 more! Without further ado, here are even more tips to help you cope with loneliness.
Tip #6: Be Open to Unlikely Connections
Challenge your assumptions and be open to connecting with people you might not instinctively consider a perfect fit for you. Embracing diversity in friendships can be surprisingly rewarding. Seek out relationships with individuals that are different from you in terms of culture, beliefs, age, interests. These connections, and the conversations that come from them, may surprise you.
Tip #7: Cultivate Depth in Relationships
Cultivating meaningful connections can come from deep convos sharing thoughts, dreams, and vulnerabilities, but one thing I’m also learning is that depth can also come from just doing life together. Watching shows, taking walks, shopping for groceries and even just running errands together are so often the stuff of life. Surprisingly, deep conversations aren’t the only thing that leads to deep relationships.
Tip #8: Work Toward a Common Goal
Sharing activities can also lead to deeper relationships. Working together towards a shared goal builds a sense of camaraderie and strengthens connections. Whether it's joining a community service project, participating in a book club, or indulging in a common hobby, simply doing stuff together creates a natural way to connect.
Tip #9: Learn Something New
Expand your social horizons by attending workshops or events focused on personal development. Learning something new not only broadens your skill set but also introduces you to like-minded individuals. Whether it's a mindfulness retreat, a communication skills workshop, or a leadership seminar, these environments foster connections with people who are like minded in wanting to grow and expand their horizons.
Tip #10: Align with Shared Values
Forge connections with individuals who resonate with your core values. Seek out people who share similar beliefs, ethics, and priorities. This could be found at a religious or spiritual gathering, a political rally, or a volunteer opportunity.
Bonus Tip #11: Embrace the Journey
Embrace the process of meeting new people and enjoy the opportunities along the way to learn about yourself. Building meaningful connections takes time, so be sure to give yourself credit for every effort you make, big or small. As philosopher Lao Tsu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Every single connection you make is a step toward a more enriched and fulfilling life. So just remember it’s a marathon and not a sprint, and this beautiful life you’re building along the way will be worth the effort.
BTW, my mission is help people love their lives so they never want to leave them.
Every week I do my best to share things with you that are inspiring, encouraging, and beneficial.
If you like:
🧠 Simple mental health tips and inspiration
🗓️ Events you can attend with amazing people
💡Random thoughts and musings as one human to another, including things I’m learning as a therapist, digital nomad,
and person who is trying to be her best!
I have a weekly newsletter I think you might like and I would love for you to be a part of it. Just click the link below!