Loneliness hits us all sometimes, but it doesn’t have to make you feel entirely dejected and disconnected.
When you’re a bit isolated and feeling a craving for company, it’s hard not to let your emotions overwhelm you and keep you trapped. However, there are plenty of ways to pick yourself up, keep yourself busy, and put a smile on your face. Here are some ways to help yourself feel a bit better. They might not be solve-alls, but they can provide temporary relief if you’re really struggling.
1. Curate your dream playlist for every mood.
Music can instantly shift your energy, so why not spend time creating personalised playlists? Build one for every vibe — “Morning Motivation,” “Calm Evenings,” or even “Dance Party for One.” Searching for songs and rediscovering old favourites can be surprisingly fulfilling. Once your playlists are ready, let the music dictate your next move. Dance around your room, sing in the shower, or simply let the melodies accompany you as you relax. It’s a simple but effective way to connect with your emotions and keep your spirits high.
2. Plan a “future you” vision board.
Instead of scrolling aimlessly on social media, use that time to create a digital or physical vision board. Gather inspiring quotes, images of places you want to visit, or photos representing personal goals. It’s not just about dreaming big — it’s about visualising the life you want to lead. Seeing your aspirations laid out can be incredibly motivating. Hang it where you’ll see it often, or save it as your phone background for daily inspiration. It’s a fun and productive way to channel your energy into something meaningful.
3. Host a themed solo day.
Why not turn your day into an event by choosing a fun theme? It could be “80s Nostalgia,” “Parisian Café,” or “Spa Retreat.” Dress the part, curate your meals, and plan activities that fit the vibe — watch a film, cook themed food, or try something completely new. Taking a more playful approach turns an ordinary day into something extraordinary. You’ll feel a sense of purpose and excitement as you immerse yourself in your chosen theme, making your time alone feel celebratory rather than lonely.
4. Explore “hidden gem” hobbies.
Everyone knows about painting and yoga, but why not try something more unexpected? Experiment with niche hobbies like urban sketching, terrarium-building, or even practising calligraphy. These activities are rewarding and easy to learn with online tutorials. Discovering a unique passion keeps your mind engaged and gives you a fun talking point for future conversations. Plus, it’s a great way to develop a skill that’s entirely your own, making your free time feel like an exciting journey of discovery.
5. Write “letters” you’ll never send.
Source: Unsplash Use your downtime to pen letters to people from your past, present, or even your future self. Write to old friends, childhood versions of yourself, or someone who’s no longer in your life. These letters aren’t for sending; they’re for you to process emotions and reflect. The act of writing helps untangle your thoughts and emotions in a deeply cathartic way. You might even surprise yourself by gaining insights or closure you didn’t realise you needed.
6. Create your personal “comfort menu.”
Build a list of all the things that bring you joy, comfort, or relaxation. Include movies, meals, playlists, books, or even specific activities. When you’re feeling down, pull from your menu without needing to overthink what might help. This list becomes your go-to resource for turning tough moments into opportunities for self-care. Revisiting your favourites feels like a warm hug from yourself, helping to ease feelings of loneliness with ease.
7. Master a 15-minute party trick.
Why not use your time to learn something entertaining you can whip out later? Try card tricks, basic juggling, or even memorising fun facts about random topics. Mastering a quirky skill is a guaranteed mood booster and makes for a great icebreaker in future interactions. As you practise, you’ll not only stay busy but also gain confidence. It’s a fun way to keep your mind sharp while preparing for moments when you’re ready to reconnect socially.
8. Redesign your digital life.
Your devices probably hold more clutter than you realise, so take the time to organise them. Create new folders, delete unnecessary apps, and organise your photos into albums. Make your phone or laptop feel fresh and streamlined. Once you’ve tidied up, consider customising your home screens with aesthetic themes or productivity tools. It’s a surprisingly satisfying project that brings order to your digital world and can leave you feeling more productive and accomplished.
9. Explore “guided curiosity” on YouTube or podcasts.
Dedicate an afternoon to exploring a random topic that sparks your interest. Search for documentaries, expert interviews, or even niche how-to videos on subjects you’ve always been curious about. Dive deep into anything from astronomy to creative writing. Letting curiosity guide your learning can turn an idle day into an enlightening experience. The best part? You might discover a new passion or find inspiration in something completely unexpected.
10. Design an ideal “self-date.”
Plan a date day for yourself, complete with activities you love. Start with breakfast at a local café, visit a museum, or spend the afternoon exploring a bookshop. End the day with a movie or your favourite meal — whatever makes you feel special. Taking yourself out reinforces that you don’t need company to have a good time. It’s a great way to celebrate yourself and turn loneliness into an opportunity for connection with your own needs and desires.
11. Start a quirky collection.
Source: Unsplash Loneliness can sometimes be eased by the joy of finding and curating something you love. Start collecting quirky items like vintage postcards, unique tea blends, or miniature figurines. The act of looking for pieces for your collection gives you a sense of purpose and excitement. Over time, your collection becomes a reflection of your personality and interests. It’s a creative way to pass the time and surround yourself with things that make you smile.
12. Practise gratitude with a twist.
Instead of listing things you’re grateful for, write down what future you would thank present you for. It could be anything from starting a habit to taking time to rest. Putting such a forward-looking spin on gratitude makes you feel optimistic and empowered. By imagining your future self’s appreciation, you shift your perspective and create motivation to invest in yourself. It’s a refreshing take on gratitude that aligns with growth and positivity.
