We all experience difficult feelings.
As much as we avoid them, they are still here.
When we are alone, we often feel lonely.
The funny thing is, we’re not alone in experiencing this.
WE ALL EXPERIENCE LONELINESS AT DIFFERENT POINTS IN OUR LIVES.
It can arise from loss, alienation, or a sense of disconnection.
We all face loneliness in different ways.
Sometimes we just distract ourselves.
Other times we sink into depression.
YET THE BEST THING WE CAN DO IS USUALLY THE LAST THING WE DO.
Which is to acknowledge it and allow ourselves to just feel it.
It may seem counterintuitive, but by facing our loneliness, we can begin to understand why we feel that way.
We can feel into the root cause and learn to be present to it.
Then we can work towards healing it.
WHEN WE TAKE THE TIME TO REFLECT ON OUR EMOTIONS WE CAN EXPLORE THE DEEPER LAYERS OF THE LONELINESS.
One layer at a time, as we are ready to face each of them.
We can engage in this process gradually.
We do not have to tackle all of it right away.
Just like dipping our toe in the water, we can release a little bit of the pain at a time.
FACING WHAT COMES UP ONE STEP AT A TIME.
Sometimes we just feel like reaching out to someone we feel safe talking to about our feelings.
Sharing our experiences with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist.
They all can provide support and help alleviate the discomfort of loneliness.
REMEMBER, IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR HELP AND SEEK CONNECTION.
Yet it is still important to create moments of solitude where we can be with ourselves without distractions.
For when we engage in activities that bring us joy, we allow ourselves to connect with our inner-self.
This can be anything from reading a book, practicing mindfulness, meditating, or going for a walk.
BY NURTURING A POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH OURSELVES, WE CAN DEVELOP A SENSE OF TRUE SELF-COMFORT.
Which can reduce the fear and pain of being alone.
Healing from loneliness takes time and patience.
Being kind to ourselves throughout the process is most important.
FOR WE DO HAVE THE STRENGTH TO OVERCOME IT.
Knowing that, we can cultivate the courage to truly face our loneliness.
Have you been able to face your loneliness?
What can you do to cultivate the courage to face it?
~ Sam Liebowitz, The Conscious Consultant
Host of The Conscious Consultant Hour
