I have had several people ask me lately about how to deal with loneliness. I thought I would put together a few tips that may be of help to anyone dealing with this.

1. No, It Isn’t Just You
Everyone – even the most popular people – get lonely at some point or another. It doesn’t mean that you are in some way faulty. We are most likely to get lonely when making life transitions and changes, especially when making changes for the better. During these transitions, you will be in a transitional phase and may not have any friends yet. Don’t worry about it – things will change.

2. Get Involved
Find a group, such as a social group. These can be found through sites with local focus, such as meetup.com. Even if you are shy, you can find groups to associate with – such as groups that cover topics like social anxiety. Your Church may also have some groups to get involved with.

3. Start New Relationships
Find some people to spend time with – they don’t have to be your ideal best friend. Just find people you can relate to, and spend some time with them. Ask them to have coffee with you, or call them up to chat. Once you get a bit of social interaction, you will feel much better, and will find it easier to proceed.

4. Take A Chance
Strike up a conversation with someone at a coffee shop, or grocery store, or some other place you happen to be spending time. You never know where you could make a new friend, and even if you don’t, the interaction will make you feel better.

5. Get Out
You will certainly feel lonely if you are sitting around your house alone. Be sure to get out of the house and do things – even if it is just as simple as going to the store, even if you don’t need anything and have no money to spend. Just being out at a big store around others can help you feel a bit more connected with others.

I hope these simple tips will help. I also think this book could help.

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