Does One Have To Be The Loneliest Number?

   After meeting a lovely, older widower at one of our local restaurants, my friend mentioned that he seemed lonely. She had met him the day before at another local breakfast cafe where also dined alone. 

When Loneliness Feels Painful

   In our conversation, he mentioned he liked to dance and we encouraged him to attend one of the local ballroom dances. That got us to thinking about the concept of loneliness. I was reminded of my Aunt Milly's comment, "Loneliness is such a terrible disease.".  Her point is well-taken.  Loneliness feels painful.

  Unlike a diagnosable disease, there are "cures" that are within our reach. Or outreach.  Social science studies conclude that being around others (in-person) is good for our physical and emotional health. We live longer and better if we have a social network of people we see face to face.

Back To The Curative Basics.

     Take back control.

     Make friends.  Have pals who like to do the things you like to do.  (Fishing, tennis, golf, kite surfing, opera, rowing or hanging out).

    

    Invite people to meet for a cup of coffee or beverage of your choice.  Most people don't initiate but savvy networkers do.

    JOIN a book club,(hiking or biking club, a bridge game, wine tasting group). Talk to the people in the group. This is easier because you already have something in common. You get the point.

    Take a class or teach a class.  When you have expertise, talent and experience...share it. Mentor the students. Or learn a language. Take a Social media class. Or woodworking class.

    Stay in touch with your friends and your longtime network. Pick up the phone, send an email, write a note.

    If you like to dance, attend a dance! Check your local paper or MeetUp.com.

    The Need To Be Needed

     It's so important to feel needed; it's that all important feeling that gives us a sense of purpose.

    Volunteer.  Think about your interests and inclinations. Volunteer to help those who need your time, skills and commitment.  Every community has organizations that need volunteer help. School children need your help.

    All you need is one place/one group to give your support, time and interest, feel needed and have a sense of purpose.

    Then one won't be the loneliest number.

    Your suggestions?

  

 

 

Comments

[Ugg Australia]

sat down and watched 4 episodes of 'The Big Bang Theory' and 'Flight of the Conchords' back to back today, which felt like a real escape. Then I followed that up by cooking up a storm, so still managed to cram some achievement in :)