Three Ways To Beat Loneliness And Feel More Connected

At SHEROES we speak to a lot of new moms that feel the loss of their old life and connectivity. Loneliness sits in when they get disconnected from their identity as working women to new mothers solely focused on a baby. One of the most common questions I get as a LoveDoctor involves how to beat loneliness. Many people think the only solution to loneliness is to be in a relationship, but that's just not true. Sometimes you feel lonely but it's not the right time to get into a serious relationship.  

The first thing to recognize is that loneliness is normal. We all feel that way at some point in time in life, and there are steps you can take to ways to beat loneliness and feel more connected.

1. Don't isolate yourself

Loneliness only breeds more loneliness. Make a concerted effort to reach out to the people that you care about and that care about you. You may feel you are being a burden but most of the time that is all in the head.

2. Get to know yourself a bit better

Focus on activities that make you feel like your best self, whatever that is. Ask yourself what brings you joy and do those things. I'm a big fan of live music so sometimes I pop to the local joint to catch a jazz band or a Sufi singer. it makes me feel more alive, even if I'm lonely.

3. Treat yourself well.

Be kind to yourself. When you're in a cycle of loneliness it's easy to put yourself down and fall into a vicious cycle of beating yourself up, feeling worse, and that causing more isolation and loneliness. Any time you speak badly about yourself you are inflicting violence, treat yourself well.