The Difference Between Being Alone & Being Lonely

The Meaning Of Being Alone

Again, being alone is simply physical. In every waking moment of our lives, we are constantly doing something alone. It's the little things that we do daily. It's eating breakfast, grocery shopping, cooking, going for a walk, driving to work, getting a manicure, or checking in at a doctor's appointment. You see, we typically move through life alone when we're not with family, friends, or coworkers. And we don't ever stop to question why we're alone in doing these things. It just is.

The Meaning Of Being Lonely

Now, certain events and situations can make us feel lonely. And it doesn't matter what the situation is, as long as the perception of loneliness is there. I have had countless moments like these too. We all have. But, have you ever noticed most of the situations are in social settings? Remember, to be lonely means to be without company which means not having anyone at the moment to do anything with. This could look like showing up to a birthday party not knowing any of the other guests or attending a wedding without a date when everyone else has one. It could also look like walking into a bar at happy hour and sitting at the bar alone. These are the situations that we choose to participate in that bring about the perception of being lonely. On the other side of the spectrum, you can just as easily be alone or feel lonely in a relationship or marriage. But that is a whole other layered discussion.

Somehow there is this universal notion we need company to enjoy the lives we live. And I am here to tell you that is not always true. Of course, life is always better when your creating moments and memories with your tribe. We're wired for interdependence. We need each other. We're not meant to do all things alone. But, what about the moments that you create for yourself? We, as women, need these little moments. We are just not taught how to enjoy our own company or how to be comfortable alone. And that is the problem.

I have learned to enjoy my own company – I date myself all the time. I have dined in picturesque restaurants, sang my favorite lyrics at a concert, and slayed the leopard one-piece on some country's white sand beach. To me, being alone means enjoying your own time, and to be lonely means to long for something or someone. And in this moment, I do not long for anyone or anything. I am completely content with where I am at in my journey. I live for new experiences and I will not wait for anyone to be available to enjoy them. If I know how to do anything at all, it's to have a good time alone.

So, I mean it when I say I am alone, but I am not lonely. And I hope that you find your own joy in being alone too.

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