What is loneliness? 

Brené Brown, the author of Atlas of the Heart (a book we are obsessed with), defines loneliness as:

The absence of meaningful social interaction—an intimate relationship, friendships, family gatherings, or even community or work group connections. 

Today the world appears to be becoming more and more disconnected, with the cracks between people, races, genders, ethnicities, political beliefs, religions, and philosophies widening at an alarming rate. But, when we look deeper, this disconnection and the political and economic machines that are moving people apart are ironically spawning movements bringing people closer together than ever. 

People are united in their humanity, joined by their hearts, by their desire for a better world, and the sincere wish to help others who are less fortunate. It takes tremendous strength and courage to remain open-hearted and vulnerable in the world we live in today. And yet, to survive, we must lead from the heart. And we must belong to ourselves. 

Loneliness is disconnection (versus being alone). We are social creatures, and in today's climate, it is easier and easier to become disconnected, which leads to loneliness. In Tia's case, she suffered immense grief after her sister's death. And she disconnected from all those around her. She was surrounded by many people - yet felt a deep loneliness.

In this episode, Tia and Julie share their insights and stories about facing the feeling of loneliness and how it leads to disconnection – and how to pick yourself up from being lonely and disconnected. 

This episode is dedicated to Shelby Sandahl, a loving sister to Tia who has touched many people's lives. 

What You Will Learn From This Episode:

01:23 - The difference between loneliness and being alone 

02:02 - Linking loneliness to disconnection 

06:40 - Getting into the darkroom 

08:31 - Avoiding being hard on yourself

11:02 - The need to become self-aware 

11:37 - Coping with the inevitability of change

13:36 - Having an armor as a means for pain protection

14:52 - Rebuilding and reconnecting with your community

Resources Mentioned:

• Brené Brown’s 30 core emotions  https://brenebrown.com/resources/list-of-core-emotions/
• Atlas of the Heart
• Obsessed with Leaning into Grief ft. Heidi Dunstan - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/obsessed-with-leaning-into-grief-ft-heidi-dunstan/id1559480972?i=1000545180987

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