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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia Tech chapter.

As an introvert, you’d think that being alone would be one of my specialties. Unfortunately, it is not.

As the years have gone by I’ve definitely become more independent, and although I have learned a few tricks to help myself when I’m feeling a bit lonely, it’s constantly something I am working on.

Being alone with yourself and your thoughts is so important, and that took me a long time to realize. It’s how you truly get to know and understand yourself. Since being in college, I have started to get better at this. I’ve realized that I don’t need to be around people all of the time to be happy.

Being alone doesn’t have to be sad, in fact, it can be the exact opposite. Instead of using the time when you are alone to do nothing but feel sorry for yourself, I have learned that a quick change of mindset can make a world of a difference.

Some things that have really helped me when I’m feeling like this are to do what makes me feel fulfilled. Using this time to focus on my passions has been extremely beneficial for me. In my case I’ll write, design or just be creative in any way that I wish. Whatever you love, do that.

Another thing that has helped me is to listen to music and be productive. I’ll do anything from taking detailed notes for class to cleaning my apartment. When I make use of my time alone, I feel so much better. Although I definitely think that distracting yourself is an excellent way to get out of a gross, lonely mood, it’s also important to recognize how you feel.

Everyone feels alone from time to time, but you can’t let it bring you down too much. Acknowledge how you are feeling, and then go do something about it. There is no point in dwelling on something like being alone.

Another thing that always helps me is making plans for the future. See if a friend wants to get breakfast before class, or hang out sometime during the week. Even though you are alone right now, having something to look forward to might make it a little easier if you are really struggling.

No matter what, know that you are good enough just on your own, and that although your friends may make you happy, you can make yourself happy too.

Learning to be alone isn’t easy, but with some practice and a positive mindset, I promise it’ll get a whole lot better.

Image Sources: GIFs from Giphy.com

Sarah Carr

Virginia Tech '20

Sarah is a current senior majoring in multimedia journalism and minoring in sociology. 
Proud to be Virginia Tech's Her Campus chapter!