Remember that feelings of loneliness are just that: feelings. They aren’t part of your identity. Think about how you would treat someone you care about if they were suffering. Now, treat yourself the same way. Start by speaking kindly to yourself, just as you would speak kindly to a loved one. [2] X Research source Give yourself a gentle gesture, like a pat on the back or a hug. This might feel a little strange, but it can actually have a soothing effect. [3] X Research source
If you feel the urge to cry when processing your feelings, then cry. There’s no shame in letting your emotions out–in fact, you’ll probably feel better after a good cry. Processing your feelings doesn’t mean dwelling on them. Instead, taking time to understand your feelings can help you move beyond them.
Write down your goals and your plan for achieving them. You’ll have a better chance of following through. [5] X Research source Big goals can be daunting, so break them down into smaller, daily tasks. If you want to write a novel, set a goal of writing a few pages every day. [6] X Research source
Try going to your favorite artist’s concert alone. Going to a concert alone may seem awkward, but once you get there, you won’t feel so lonely. After all, everyone there has at least one thing common—you all like the band or artist.
Many bloggers end up making a community of friends when others read their posts and connect with them. You don’t necessarily have to tell others about your blog, or even publish the posts if you don’t want to.
Taking an online class can also give some structure and meaning to your life. You may feel that your days are empty without friends, and this is a meaningful and productive way to fill that time.
Self-care can include anything that helps you nurture your mind, body, or spirit, such as eating healthy meals, exercising, getting enough sleep, or spending time in nature. You might also do pampering activities like getting a massage, doing a facial, polishing your nails, or getting a new haircut.
If you find yourself thinking “no one likes me,” consider your family members who think you’re the greatest! You might say to yourself, “Wait, that’s not true. I have an entire family full of people that love me. ” Make a list of what makes you a great friend, such as always being there when people need you. Reread this list often when you start to feel unworthy.
Start a gratitude journal in which you jot down three things that went well at the end of each day. After doing this for a while, you may start to notice that things aren’t as bad as you thought they were. [11] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Instead of focusing on your lonely thoughts focus on wishing others well! Try giving a big smile to the people you pass on the street. Maybe you’ll get a few back. [12] X Research source
You might also sign up for a class at your local gym or recreational center. Getting fit this way can help you meet some new friends!
Smile at strangers, hold the door for the elderly woman behind you, or help a kid find her missing soccer ball.
Start a fun, new tradition, like a weekly game night or a Friday movie night with pizza!
For example, you’re in line at the grocery store and you see a teen in front of you who is playing on their smartphone. You might say, “You seem to be really good at that. What’s the goal of the game?” Try to ask an open-ended question that requires the person to give a detailed answer rather than just replaying “yes” or “no. ” A great open-ended question is something like, “You said skiing is your favorite sport–what is it about skiing that you love?”
Just seeing people around can help you like them more–this is called the mere exposure effect. Pick a social setting, like a coffee shop or a smoothie cafe, and hang out there. Who knows? You may become friends with the workers or the other regulars.
People like other people who make them feel good, so be encouraging and give genuine compliments. You might say something like, “Wow, it’s amazing that you volunteer at the homeless shelter each week. I’m so impressed! Can you tell me more about that?”
Don’t be afraid to join a club for something you’ve never done before, like Improv or bowling. You may meet many other people who are equally inexperienced, and you can bond over the challenges you face and your funny mistakes. It’s fine to take it slowly if you’re hesitant. Just don’t let your fear of rejection prevent you from connecting with awesome, like-minded people. [21] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
Just don’t let your online friends keep you from making friends in person, and be careful about meeting up or connecting with any people you meet online.
Help adults and children learn to read at your local library, volunteer at your local soup kitchen, or help clean up a park in your community.
