Overcome Loneliness

As more people move to new cities or even countries to work, loneliness often becomes a common factor in the move.



Let's look at how you can overcome feelings of loneliness, especially if you have moved to a new location.

Time: You can start right away, but you may need to keep working on it over days or weeks.

Materials
Yourself
Your smile
Your friendly attitude

Method

I have lived in a number of different cities and countries. One of the first clues that someone is feeling lonely or sad is their inability to appreciate the place that they live.



However every place I have ever been has some special or interesting thing. Go and find these things. Appreciate the local art, food or attractions.

Even if you are a local, you have to learn to appreciate what is around you. Many lonely or unhappy people that I know are often not aware of the wonderful things in their local community despite having lived their all their lives.


People with hobbies tend to feel happier and less lonely. If you often feel lonely then find a hobby. The other advantage of hobbies is that they are also a great way to meet people based on a shared interest.

The best hobbies are ones that you can undertake by yourself but which have many groups that you can join to share your hobby with. Though of course there is no harm in taking up a social hobby.


This one can actually a little bit of a double edged sword. Nothing can make you feel more lonely than being in a crowd of people that you can't connect with.



Find a crowd you feel comfortable with. Maybe it is a music scene, hiking clubs or a political group. It doesn't matter who they are, except they should share some sort of connection or interest with you.


Volunteer work can be a great way to meet other people. Most people who volunteer are both friendly and generous and so can be a great way to expand your social circle.


Studying, especially short courses, is a great way to meet people with similar interests.


The number one thing to do is get out of the house. Even sitting in a coffee shop reading a book can make you feel less lonely than if you stayed at home.




Loneliness can be made worse through negative behaviours. Examples include alcohol and drug use as well as overeating. Instead adopt some positive habits such as rising early, exercising, dressing well and so on.


Nearly everyone feels lonely at some point in their life. Beating loneliness is not just meeting people, but about changing and improving your life and yourself in some way.

Categories
#life_skills
#self_help
#personal_development
#friends


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