Once Upon a Pandemic

The global lockdown during the pandemic served as a crucial lesson in valuing our health and the necessity of social bonds. Suddenly, we found ourselves adrift in an ocean of minimal physical contact, yearning for the return of normalcy. The very essence of our existence—fellow humans—was restricted.

For many introverts, including myself, this new reality initially felt liberating. We were free from awkward small talk and events we felt obligated to attend. Yet, this novelty quickly wore off. We discovered that even those who prefer solitude are, at their core, social beings.

Why is this the case? It’s rooted in our biology. Our ancestors relied on community for safety and support, which explains why isolation can have such a profound impact on us. After all, there’s a saying: "There’s safety in numbers."

The Art of Solitude

While there are undeniable benefits to community—such as lower risks of depression and heart issues—there is also a unique beauty in embracing intentional solitude. In moments of solitude, we confront our true selves, peeling back the layers of our identity.

This journey of self-discovery, intertwined with psychology and our existential questions, makes solitude a powerful tool. Free from the judgment of others, we can ask ourselves profound questions:

• What am I like when no one else is watching?
• Would I truly binge-watch reruns of my favorite shows without feeling self-conscious?
• Do I even enjoy sleeping on the floor?
• Am I okay with chewing with my mouth open?

What Really Matters

As Honoré de Balzac wisely noted, “Solitude is fine, but you need someone to tell you that solitude is fine.” Eventually, I navigated through my feelings of loneliness by reaching out to friends and sharing my experiences virtually.

Another realization dawned upon me—despite the physical distance, we are never entirely alone. We may face our own unique challenges, but countless others share similar feelings. This thought provided a strange comfort.

In the end, I found joy in simple pleasures, like watching reruns of my favorite shows, laughing, and enjoying my own company. With that, the world felt right again.

In this insightful video, Jay Shetty discusses the feelings of isolation and offers guidance for those who feel disconnected from others.

This video explores three key reasons behind feelings of loneliness and provides valuable insights into human connections.