The feeling of loneliness is a very common occurrence for many people who travel abroad for an extended period of time. Whether you are visiting for a few weeks or have moved abroad for a permanent change, adjusting to a new culture, environment and people can often be daunting and lonely. However, with a little effort and care, it is possible to overcome this feeling and enjoy your new experience to the fullest.
Understanding and Overcoming the Feeling of Loneliness Abroad
The feeling of loneliness when traveling abroad can be quite intense and hard to overcome. For some, it is like a weight resting on the chest, while for others it manifests as a void of sadness and despair in every realm of life. While these reactions are completely natural and normal, it is worth taking steps to better deal with and eventually manage this feeling. In fact, it is possible to turn this feeling into something completely positive and life changing.
Reach out to Your Old & New Connections
The first and perhaps most important step on your journey to reduce the feeling of loneliness is to arrange a few calls and meetings with family, old friends, and any new connections you may have made. Re-establishing and expanding your social circle may be daunting at first, but with some effort you can quickly find yourself surrounded by people with shared (or different) interests. Whether it be coffee-dates, evenings out exploring the city, or simply a message to catch up on news and gossip, connecting with acquaintances may well be the best way to start reducing the feeling of loneliness and increase your sense of community.
Find New Activities & Clubs
The activities you partake in can also make an immense difference in terms of combatting the feeling of loneliness. From joining a language club or cultural society, to exploring alternative art and music scenes, acquiring new skills, or volunteering, there are a plethora of activities available to suit almost any interest. Moreover, by taking the time to participate in activities that are meaningful to you, you can establish deeper connections with like-minded people, provide you with a better sense of purpose, and ultimately ensure you make the most out of your time abroad.
Reestablish Family & Friends Connection
This can be a tricky one, given that connections with relatives and old friends can be considerably weakened due to the physical gap between you. Nevertheless, reconnecting with your family and old friends is an important step on your journey of reducing the feeling of loneliness. By frequently sending emails, photos, and messages, you can keep yourself connected to those your closest and open the door to further communication, such as Skype calls, video chats, and eventually visits.
Be Open to New Experiences
Lastly, remaining open to any new opportunities is a great way to reduce the feeling of loneliness. Accept invitations to events and conversations, explore the local culture and food, and open yourself up to any possible changes in perspective. Simply putting yourself in a more social environment and taking the time to understand others and new experiences can be especially helpful in combatting the feeling of loneliness.
Conclusion
The feeling of loneliness when traveling abroad can be a powerful emotion, but it does not have to overwhelm you. By staying connected with family and old friends and seeking out new experiences and activities, you can take measures to reduce the feeling of loneliness and turn it into a positive and life changing journey.
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Meta description: Reduce the feeling of loneliness while traveling abroad with this step-by-step guide. Stay connected with family and old friends and explore the local culture and food, join language clubs or cultural societies, acquire new skills, and open yourself to any new opportunities.