Man having someone to enjoy stuff with is the best feeling.

I’m lonely too. I’ve recently moved to the other side of the city so I’m in a new place and I have to start over again. I moved here about 3 years ago on my own, not really knowing what to expect. I made friends, but I worry that my recent move has pushed them away and I miss them loads.

I was 29 when I moved. It sounds silly but I couldn’t even go into a pub on my own because of one reason or another. Mainly anxiety issues. I’ve done that now, and it’s great! I don’t have to keep up with people and I don’t have to buy rounds.

But I’m still working on going to the cinema or going to concerts on my own. I know I’d enjoy it, but in the back of my head (and the same reason I couldn’t go to the pub on my own) was because I worried people would judge me for being on my own.

You’ve got that covered and I’m a little jealous!

The point of what I’m trying to say is that this stuff takes time.

If you’re compelled to speak to strangers (something I can’t do, even though I work in a profession that likes a networking event), join a club for people with similar interests. I think you could find some acceptance and validation for who you are! I think we’ve all got something to give, and as we’re pack animals it’s our nature to seek out ‘our people’. But ‘our people’ might be exactly like us - and if ‘our people’ are introverts, have anxiety or even just feel a little different, it can be hard to find them and for them to find us.

But keep going and be patient. I often remind myself that I could meet ‘her’ or other friends, tomorrow. I’ve been telling myself that since I could think, but that thought has got me through so dark times.

If I can do it, so can you.