By Mercedes Korngut and Anastasia Korngut | Co-Founders, Smallbitsofhappiness.com
We all feel lonely sometimes. Even in a room filled with people, we can feel alone, misunderstood, or overlooked. Perhaps you’re simply not connecting with people at school, work, or extracurriculars; going through something others can’t relate to, understand or even know; or for countless other reasons. We get it! However, social connection is an essential contributor to happiness, even if you’re more introverted than extroverted. Keep reading for our top tips for reducing feelings of loneliness and creating more positive social connections.
1. Volunteer
Giving back to the community and seeking social connections elsewhere can be SO rewarding! Look into local organizations or events that you can help out. Here, you’ll and meet others in a similar age range with similar interests and values. Not to mention, when we see someone feel HAPPY because of our actions, we feel happier too. Check out this BIT to learn about why helping others helps us. Volunteering is a great way to feel a sense of purpose, socialize, get a small bit of happiness, and feel less lonely.
2. Write It Out
Grab a journal, blank sheet of paper, or even the notes app on your phone. Ask yourself: What other emotions piggyback off of loneliness? Are you feeling frustrated, sad, or anxious? Reflecting and writing all of these down helps to release them from your mind, remove that ‘weight’ of carrying all these thoughts within your mind, and helps to move forward.
Understanding WHAT we’re feeling provides us with a lot of insight about ourselves. Often, we don’t really even understand how we’re feeling and why. Take some time in the evening before bed and reflect.
3. There’s A Reason
Sometimes we feel alone for a reason. Perhaps your relationships or friendships aren’t in the best place. Remember that everything happens for a reason, and if you trust your gut and seek out positive relationships and new connections, you’ll find your tribe. We know, it can be really difficult to remember this, especially when you’re going through a lonely time. Perhaps you’re going to make a really good relationship soon, or a really cool opportunity will come your way. Do not let this feeling put you down and be open for all the amazing opportunities that each day brings. Don’t wait around for this new relationship or opportunity to strike – seek out new people, new goals, new environments, and new ideas. Go to events, volunteer, or strike up conversations!
We hope that these tips help you feel less alone and inspire you to strike up a conversation with someone new, today.
Check out these conversation starters!
ABOUT THE TEENAGE AUTHORS
Mercedes Korngut, Co-Founder & CEO
Mercedes is a teen who is passionate about helping other teens find small happiness in daily life. She is the producer and co-host of podcast, Hack Your Happiness, and the editor of all Small Bits of Happiness media videos. In addition, Mercedes is a contributor to various magazines across North America, writing on the subject of happiness and parent-teen connection.
Anastasia Korngut, Co-Founder & COO
Anastasia is a passionate and talented fashion designer, and is the head of the Small Bits of Happiness designs department. Her work focuses on intentional innovation – creating products that elevate one’s daily mood. In addition, Anastasia heads social media, and co-hosts the podcast, Hack Your Happiness.
Learn more about finding bits of happiness at https://smallbitsofhappiness.com.