As I was driving the other day, I thought to myself, “Why is being an Adult hard?” It’s super hard to ground yourself when you’re feeling disconnected.
With social media’s presence in our every day lives, it is more than likely that you have at least experienced losing someone you at least would consider an acquaintance. However, the friends & family members I lost this past year weren’t acquaintances, but people that I spoke to regularly.
1. Talk to Someone You Trust About How You Feel.
The initial thought of losing someone you care about is suffocating. If you have anyone that you can open up to, it will make you feel a lot better to express yourself without any judgment. If you’re having a hard time finding someone that you can open up to, consider seeing a Psychologist, no matter how trivial you think your problems are. If the high cost of having a Psychologist has put you off, be sure to check out your local University—many have discounted services through their psychology programs where anyone (even non-students) can receive the help that you need for less while still receiving legally protected confidentiality.
2. Reach Out to Old Friends.
Take this as an opportunity to talk to people you may have lost touch with. As the saying goes, “the phone works both ways,” and sometimes all it takes is a call to rekindle a lifelong friendship.
3. Open Up to Others / Allow Them to Open Up to You.
As I was flying back from a trip, I shared with the gentleman next to me that I was leaving early due to my grandmother’s passing. Rather than pity me, he asked questions such as “Tell me one of your favorite stories about your grandmother.” This made me focus on the happy memories and helped me connect with a stranger.
4. Stay Active.
You’d be astonished how much more positive you view everything after a vigorous workout. Having trouble getting to the gym? Take a class where you’ll be with others just like yourself.
And one more thing: Never give up. Ever. Tomorrow’s a new day, and what’s left of today can still be beautiful.
Happy Slacking,
