Being an introvert means spending almost all of your time alone. But what happens when that turns into loneliness? Introverts sometimes feel lonely. They are humans too.
However not everyone is open to expressing how lonely they are. When you say you are lonely, people assume you need the company of others to be happy making you seem dependent on human interaction. This is not the truth.
Loneliness can hit you the hardest sometimes and you barely notice it other times. Being introverted means people doubt you when you say you’re lonely. People also think that you’re content with being lonely. However, that’s a misconception.
Although introverts feel the need to be alone sometimes, we hate the feeling of loneliness. Introversion isn’t the same with being antisocial. We crave human connection too. As long as we are willing to let them in our space.
Introverts get lonely sometime too. So, how do you fight off this loneliness as an introvert? Here are 5 simple ways to help you.
5 Simple Tips
1. Change Your Environment
As much as we truly love the four walls of our homes, we can also get overwhelmed when it’s too much. And that’s when the loneliness starts. This isn’t what you want or need.
I can tell you socializing and going out is so difficult as an introvert but if you don’t make a move, it’ll always be like that. Leaving your home doesn’t mean you have to be in the club or at concerts.
You can find places that suit your lifestyle such as visiting the park, library, going site seeing, and even traveling. Taking a breath of fresh air is never a bad idea and it helps you out with your loneliness.
A change of scenery can never go wrong and should never be underestimated. As long as you find a place that doesn’t trigger your anxiety, you should be fine.
2. It’s Not by The Quantity but The Quality
Loneliness can make you entertain thoughts that you shouldn’t. However, you must remember that it isn’t the quantity of people around you that matters, but the quality. You don’t need a whole army. One genuine friend is enough.
Finding that one person who truly loves, understand, and respect you is all you need. Introverts hate small talk. So, you need someone who shares the same energy and can engage in great conversations.
You can connect with people with share similar interests by joining clubs or groups. Finding them through trusted online platforms is another way. Finding people who share the same interests make them easier to talk to.
This way, you aren’t stuck with the prolonged small talks and can connect easily. This makes you feel less lonely as you look forward to more meetings and discussions.
3. Focus on the People in Your Life
Sometimes the reason why introverts are lonely is because they shut people out of their lives. There are people in our lives who already make us happy but we just choose to seclude ourselves.
It is important to remember these people. Never forget that it’s not about the quantity of people in your life, but the quality. These people can be your family, both nuclear and extended.
Whenever you feel lonely, there’s nothing wrong in reaching out to your inner circle. They can provide you with the support you need.
Loneliness can make you feel like there’s no one who understands you. Truth is, sharing and listening can help you a lot.
4. Consider Pets
Although they require a lot of care and commitment, pets are great company. Adopting a pet can give you the relief that you need and you do not have to feel as lonely as you do.
It can also increase your chances of socializing. You share a lot with your pet and they become a part of you. Plus, you give them a loving home. It’s a win win situation.
Before I got a pet, I always spoke to myself. Now, I talk to Joe. No doubt he doesn’t understand my words but he understands my feelings and that’s the purest form of love there is.
If you’re an introvert thinking of how to repel loneliness, consider a pet. Get one you’re comfortable with and ready to love. You’ll see a lot of progress.
5. Engage In Other Activities
Exercising is a great form of stress relief and it also keeps you too busy to feel lonely. Plus, you can find people you connect with at the gym or in the park.
Engaging in other activities such as sports and group activities can never go wrong to curb the feeling of loneliness. As long as you’re comfortable with this then by all means go ahead.
This is very important as you don’t want to be in a place where your loneliness intensifies. One of the worse types of loneliness is being surrounded but still feeling alone. If the feeling doesn’t go away, then you might want to consider talking to someone.
Talking to a therapist can help as the continuous feeling of loneliness can be linked to depression. Talking to a professional helps you identify your problems and find ways to solve them.
