On Love And Loneliness | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

On Love And Loneliness

Don't let the idea of being with someone turn into the hope of extinguishing loneliness.

8
On Love And Loneliness
Tumblr

I don't think I've ever really let myself be alone. I don't know what to do with myself when I have the chance. I'll immerse myself in social media for hours to get away from my own thoughts.

It's easier to watch videos of babies covering "H.O.L.Y." by Florida Georgia Line than to put thought into my values, where they came from, or even if I am reaching the standards I hold everyone around me to.

I went into my freshman year of college dead set on staying away from relationships and anything to distract me from myself and my goals. About a month in I met someone. We'll be coming up on a year in about two weeks.

My boyfriend is one of the kindest, most genuine people I know. He's also one of the most independent, hard working, and more importantly the busiest person in the world. I come in at #2 in the busy world champions list.

I'm a sophomore in college, a theatre school major, a master electrician for a show, a sorority woman, part of a philanthropy team, part of the executive board for a club, I have three jobs, and I just became a Level 1 Kitty City volunteer at a local animal shelter.

Okay, so maybe sometimes I come in at #1. I've got a lot on my plate, but I've shifted from leaning on someone else for strength and started reflecting on how I handle my life. I love my boyfriend, and I love that my relationship gives me the space I need to experience the independence I need to grow up.

I'm awful at being by myself. I can't stand silence. I'm an ugly crier. I'm fantastic at procrastination. I am the queen of overthinking. And I discovered this all on my own. Congrats, right?

Being lonely is something that we were never really encouraged to talk about. There's a difference between wanting to be with someone and not wanting to be alone.

Spending time working on projects, reading, and observing alone has taught me more about me than I wasn't sure I'd ever figure out. The idea that there is someone else to complete you and help you figure out the rest is appealing, so much so because it's easier than doing the hard stuff on your own. It's hard to face what makes you, you.

Don't let the idea of being with someone turn into the hope of extinguishing loneliness. Use your own experience to find the things you didn't know you had. Be authentic, be present, be there for yourself.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

24243
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

10136
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7409
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments