Today’s world is constantly buzzing and humming with movement. Whether it’s a quick ride in the car, or a few swift clicks online, it is easier than ever to get connected with others. Why is it that so many of us feel so lonely, though?

Being lonely can be tough, especially when we don’t understand why we’re feeling this way. Some of us struggle with actually being alone. There’s that feeling of emptiness when you come home to a dark house after a long and grueling day of work. On the other hand, some of us struggle with feeling alone. Maybe it’s staying home and taking care of the kids all day by yourself, and feeling like you have nobody but yourself to get you through the day.

Whether it’s a feeling or a reality of being alone, loneliness affects people in different ways. The trick is to learn how it affects you. Below are 8 things to do to help you overcome the effects of feeling or being lonely.

8. Allow Yourself an Emotional Release

Feeling lonely is a normal and common thing many people experience at different points in their lives. It isn’t something you should be ashamed of. When you notice you are feeling alone or lonely, learn to acknowledge those feelings. Once you validate your emotions, you can then start the journey of healing.

Find things that allow you to release pent-up emotions in a healthy way. Allow yourself to listen to a sad song and have a good cry. Use activities like painting and allow yourself to be angry, or frustrated for a moment and let go of those feelings you have held on to.

When you are creating a space for an emotional release, it is important to not let your emotions consume you. Notice the way you are feeling, and let go of any feelings that do not serve your highest sense of self.

So lonely

7. Exercise

Being active is a good way to combat feelings of loneliness. Often, when we finally admit we are feeling so lonely, our bodies have endured a great deal of stress. Loneliness is something that pairs with depression, and anxiety, all too well.

Exercising helps us release toxins, breathe deeply, and circulate oxygen through our bodies. These are all things that can drastically improve one’s mood. Not to mention, exercising can be a group or partner activity!

6. Engage in Self-Development

Have you noticed when you are feeling so lonely, how caught up in your mind you are? Feelings of loneliness tend to set in when our minds are stuck thinking about a distant memory, or a future we can only dream of. If you find yourself doing this, take a step back and be present right where you are.

Being present and becoming aware of your own passing thoughts can be learned through self-development. Books like The Power of Now or Stillness Speaks are great places to start for those of you who like to read. If you aren’t a big reader, I would suggest looking into the Headspace App, which has helpful videos (like the one below) and guided meditations.

5. Find Ways to Be Creative

As humans, we are naturally creative creatures. Finding ways to be creative can help soothe feelings of loneliness in several different ways. Creating things helps the mind focus on something it can control and gives the mind a medium to release built-up energy.

Try things like painting, drawing, knitting, writing, or even learning a musical instrument!

4. Focus on What You Have

If you have ever felt so lonely it hurts, I am willing to bet you were focused on a life you wanted or a life you didn’t have anymore. Feelings of loneliness tend to stem from thoughts of a life we wish we had or something that we wish was different in our life. These feelings can be made worse after time spent scrolling through social media and seeing the lives other people are living.

Instead of focusing your attention on things that you do not have, take a step back and acknowledge all things wonderful things in your life that you do have, or have accomplished. Try keeping a gratitude journal to remind yourself to be thankful every day.

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3. Surround Yourself with Life

About 80% of people have a deep-seated desire for making connections in life. Whether it is physical, mental, or emotional, so many of us are constantly striving to form meaningful and lasting relationships with other beings in our lives.

One way you can overcome feeling so lonely is by surrounding yourself with life. While people are great, consider opening your heart to a pet or even a few plants. Both pets and plants work wonders in helping people cope with loneliness and depression.

Not sure what houseplants are right for you? Check out our article on Using Indoor Plants to Relieve Depression and Stress.

2. Perform Random Acts of Kindness

As you begin your journey in exploring your feelings of loneliness, you might discover that some challenges just seem too big at the start. Feeling so lonely can make us feel completely isolated and cut off from the rest of the world sometimes. If you aren’t quite ready to jump into things head first, try starting off small.

Performing random acts of kindness are small gestures that help us start building up our relationships and confidence with the outside world. Try giving your local grocery gal a compliment, holding the door open for someone, or volunteering with a local animal shelter.

So lonely

1. Practice Self Care

It may be hard to accept, but our happiness is our own responsibility. The minute you put your happiness in the hands of someone outside of yourself, you are giving them the power to take it away. We must find it within ourselves to love who we are and the life we are living. Practicing self-care is one way to help you get there.

Do things that make your body feel good or things that put your mind at ease. For help getting started, enroll in our free eCourse below and start our 5 Day Self Care Challenge. Live your life for you, and start loving it today.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

There’s nothing wrong with being lonely, and you are not alone in feeling this way. If things ever just become too much, please reach out to a trusted family member, a friend, or even a mental health professional. Start a conversation, and make your wellness a priority.

So lonely

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Who Runs This Joint?

Hi, I'm Erin! I am the content creator of Resourceful Soul. Prioritizing health and happiness is HUGE in my life and it is my mission to help others live their best lives too! You can learn more about me and what goes on behind the scenes here.

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