The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved. Mother Teresa, Albanian-Indian Catholic nun and the founder of the Missionaries of Charity
John Cacioppo, American neuroscientist and author of Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection, argues that loneliness developed for important evolutionary reasons; to remind us that, as social beings, we must seek the company of others.
Twice as unhealthy as obesity, loneliness poses a significant health risk. Men are particularly vulnerable with nearly half of all men over 50 suffering from severe loneliness. This figure is expected to rise by 50% in the next fifteen years.
Relationships require attention. Similar to keeping your muscles strong, without effort and attention, relationship atrophy can easily set in and, along with it, loneliness.
This is the perfect time of year to reach out to someone who may be feeling lonely. Send them a note, give them a call, even a text acknowledges that you’re thinking about them.
Affirmation: I will help myself and others feel less lonely.
Coaching questions: What are you doing to keep loneliness at bay? How are you reaching out to those who may be lonely?
Photo by Mykyta Martynenko on Unsplash
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