How to cope with loneliness as a single person

Being single has its advantages. You are not committed to one particular person, and you can come and go as you please. You don’t have to worry about cooking or about having to make unwanted compromises. Sounds great, right? However, being single has some disadvantages.

One of the biggest disadvantages of being single is dealing with loneliness. Loneliness can be difficult to deal with, but not impossible. If you are single and lonely, then read on. The following tips will help you cope.

Tip #1: Get out and socialize

Although it has happened, the chances are slim that you will meet a companion while moping around your house. Get out and meet some people. Even if you don’t initially feel like it, getting out in the public will help decrease those feelings of loneliness.

Tip #2: Talk to friends

Pick up the phone and call your friends. Schedule some time with them. Talk to them about your feelings. Surround yourself with positive people.

Tip #3: Volunteer

Sure, it’s not exactly going on a date, but volunteering can be almost as rewarding. It will not only help your community, but it can help you to connect with others and make new social contacts. It will help you to put things into perspective, and to stop focusing on being single.  Volunteering will expose you to people who share some of the same interests as you. It can build your self-confidence and increase your life satisfaction. Volunteering will give you a chance to learn new skills or sharpen the old ones. 

Tip #4: Focus on your hobbies

Focus on your hobbies or discover new ones. Go back to school. Take classes that will help you further your career. While you are single is a good time to pursue your careers goals and other hobbies. Pack your calendar with exciting things to do. Just because you are single it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.

Tip #5: Exercise

The benefits of exercise cannot be overstated.  Not only does it help you get in shape and help to prevent illness like heart disease and diabetes, it can also help your mood. Exercise helps to release serotonin into your blood system. Serotonin is a mood altering chemical that can make the difference between feeling lonely and depressed or feeling happy and self-confident. Joining a gym or going jogging is also a smart way to meet other singles.

Stop focusing on the negative aspects of being single and begin find ways to beat loneliness.  Talk to a friend and find other activities that you enjoy.