Difference Between Being Alone and Feeling Lonely

Being alone and feeling lonely are two very different states that people often mistake for believing they are exactly the same. Each person perceives loneliness in a different way, which is why it is sometimes so difficult to explain to some people the reason why these two states differ from each other; since the differentiation of these two terms is subject to the interpretation of each one and how you feel at the moment.

Many experts affirm that being alone can be associated with positive feelings, while feeling alone is always associated with the negative; However, as we know that this information is not enough for you, below we will explain in more detail what is the difference between feeling alone and being alone.

BEING ALONE

Being alone is generally associated with a positive state of mind in which the person is happy and satisfied with himself.

Many times people seek solitude when they want to calm down, meditate, reflect and regain their energy. When someone is alone, but does not feel that way, they do not see loneliness as a threat; but as an opportunity to evaluate your own feelings.

It is said that only when a person is alone can they come to understand their true feelings, desires and motivations ; since no one directly influences your thoughts and decisions at that time.

FEELING ALONE

On the other hand, feeling lonely has a negative connotation; since the feeling of loneliness comes hand in hand with discontent and often with the fact of having a “broken heart.”

People often feel lonely after going through situations such as a divorce, the death of a loved one, a love breakup, a betrayal, the departure of a friend … The feeling of loneliness is characterized by a feeling of total helplessness.

Contrary to what some may believe, human beings can feel lonely even when surrounded by many people; since this feeling does not arise as a result of the lack of physical contact, but of intimacy.

Finally, everyone feels lonely sometime, but it is everyone’s duty to face the feelings and emotions that the feeling of loneliness brings with it, always remembering that the difference between being and feeling alone lies in how one perceives their reality.