Being alone vs. Feeling alone- a juxtaposition. Being alone is a state of being while feeling alone is an emotional feeling of loneliness and isolation, even in a group of people. Being alone isn’t a negative thing. It allows us to reflect, to appreciate ourselves and our being. Loneliness is often, but not always as a result of being alone. I’ve spent years feeling completely isolated and alone despite being surrounded by people who loved me. Being alone and feeling alone are two very different things. It is completely possible to be alone and not feel any sense of loneliness whatsoever. When I am physically alone in the state of being by myself, I feel most like me. In fact, sometimes I prefer it. I am able to focus on myself. I spend my time bettering my mind and my soul and my body rather than wasting it comparing myself to others. Do you love who you are when you’re alone? Oftentimes it’s easier to truly get to know ourselves (our likes, dislikes, etc.) when we begin to focus on ourselves. Being alone doesn’t necessarily equate to having no one, it just allows us to better understand our own mind, thoughts, mannerisms, and behaviors. Many of us struggle with finding that balance between having time to ourselves and feeling isolated from others. It’s a difficult notion to grasp and to get accustomed to but once you do, having time to yourself can be wonderful. It’s easier to start off with increments of your day. Many of us aren’t used to spending time with ourselves and sometimes our thoughts can become overwhelming. Give yourself an hour or so to do something you enjoy, whether it’s reading a new book or journaling or simply having a cup of tea, etc. Use that time to get to know yourself. Reintroduce yourself to things you used to enjoy, maybe an old hobby or activity. Show yourself that being alone can be enough and that it doesn’t need to lead to feelings of loneliness. I haven’t yet mastered this concept but little by little everyday I am learning to feel at peace with myself and my own company. While I love spending time with others, I know that it’s okay to spend time with myself. Learning about my vast interests, expanding my mind, trying new things. I, as well as you, are lucky to get to discover things about ourselves. At the end of the day, you are your longest and most significant relationship. You will always be there for yourself. And so, it’s important that we get to know anything and everything that we possibly can about who we truly are and what we love. You can be alone without feeling alone, and that’s a beautiful thing.
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