Mother Teresa once said, “Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty.”
Growing up can be an isolating experience. Although you are surrounded by people of a similar age, it may seem as if you are going through distinct changes and struggles that no one else seems to understand. Perhaps this is true to some extent. There is always something that separates us. Human beings are so unique that there are no two people who can possibly have the exact same experiences or perspectives. We are born alone, and ultimately, we will die alone. Nevertheless, the need for human connection is quite universal. There is no one on this planet who can thrive without another person.
In today’s world, a growing number of young people seem to identify with the feeling of loneliness. It is unfortunately ironic that despite the world’s rapidly expanding population, more and more people seem to find themselves feeling alone.
Many attribute this concerning trend to technology and media. It is, after all, quite natural for us to forget how to connect physically and emotionally with other people when we have been using screens to do it throughout our whole lives. There are also other factors that contribute to the phenomenon of loneliness.
For instance, there is the fact that we do not often seek out bonds and connections. Instead, we expect them to just happen. We feel lonely and sad, but we rarely attempt to remedy the feelings. If you feel alone and are battling with not feeling wanted, then take control over that part of yourself and find ways to make yourself happier. It is true that actively seeking out people for the purpose of becoming friends will not always work. However, every relationship, no matter how small, takes a little bit of effort from both sides. Sometimes, it is up to us to initiate the exchange. The strongest friendships often begin in little acts of kindness. When you are kind to the people around you, you will naturally form bonds with them. If you are more open and willing to reach out to other people, you will eventually find friends. Try speaking to people you do not usually talk to. Try joining a club, or picking up a new sport where you can connect with people.
Additionally, many of us have gotten into the habit of believing that loneliness is a feeling that comes from a lack of being around good friends and family. While that definitely contributes, loneliness is simply an emotion, and as is the case with all emotions, we are fully in control of it. Making new friends will help you find happiness and enjoy the time you spend every day, but it will not solve your emotional problems. If you find, through introspection, that you can only be happy when there are people around you, then it means that you need to spend time building yourself and learning to love yourself.
