Alexa, Find Me a Friend: Navigating Loneliness in a Connected World

Let’s be real—loneliness isn’t just sitting in a dark room staring dramatically out of a

rainy window (although, if that’s your thing, no judgment). It’s the awkward silence in

your apartment after you laugh at your own joke. It’s realizing you haven’t had a real

conversation all day except with your dog—who, by the way, was not as amused as you

hoped. Whether you’re single and side-eyeing wedding invitations, a mom who hasn’t

spoken to an adult in 48 hours, or an empty nester debating whether a Roomba counts

as a companion, loneliness has a way of sneaking up on all of us.

Society tells us we should have vibrant social lives filled with laughter, group brunches,

and spontaneous road trips. But in reality? You might be on your couch in pajamas,

three episodes deep into a true crime documentary, while social media bombards you

with “#blessed” vacation photos and perfectly curated friend groups. (Meanwhile, you're

just wondering if eating shredded cheese straight from the bag is acceptable.) But let’s

get one thing straight: Social media is a highlight reel, not real life. People don’t post

about their lonely Friday nights or the fact that they, too, just had cereal for dinner.

It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one stuck in the monotony of daily life when your

feed is full of people skydiving, getting engaged, or posing with a suspiciously perfect

avocado toast. But let’s be real—half of those “candid” laughing photos took 37 tries

and some strategic lighting. Your worth isn’t measured by how photogenic your life

looks. So the next time you catch yourself spiraling down the rabbit hole of comparison,

put the phone down and remember: You don’t need a filtered, aesthetically pleasing life

to be living a good one. Clock it!

If you are ready to do something different let me get you headed in the right direction:

1. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone (Literally)

Yes, I know your couch is cozy. But making new connections means stepping outside

your routine. Join a book club (even if you just go for the snacks), sign up for a yoga

class (even if you spend most of it lying on the mat), or attend a community event. Just

being around people can remind you that the world is bigger than your living room.

2. Send That Awkward Text

We all have that friend we think about texting but don’t because “it’s been too long” or

“what if they’re busy?” Spoiler alert: They’re probably thinking the same thing. Just send

the text. Worst case? They take a while to reply. Best case? You reconnect and

suddenly have weekend plans.

3. Stop Comparing Your Life to That Girl on Instagram

You know the one—the girl who seems to have an infinite supply of brunch dates,

vacations, and aesthetically pleasing coffee cups. What you don’t see is that she might

feel just as lonely at times. Unplug when needed and remind yourself that your life, even

with its pajama days and solo grocery store trips, is just as valuable.

4. Talk to Strangers (Not in a Creepy Way)

Sometimes, casual chats with the barista, the grocery store clerk, or even your

neighbor can help ease loneliness. (Unless your neighbor is weird, then, you know, trust

your instincts.) Small interactions build a sense of connection, and who knows? They

might lead to actual friendships.

5. Embrace the Weird and Wonderful You

Sometimes, the best company is your own. Pick up a new hobby, binge-watch an entire

series guilt-free, or take yourself out on a solo date. The more you enjoy your own

company, the less loneliness has a hold on you. It’s not weird to do stuff by yourself. If

you don’t love on you, why would others?

Loneliness doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It’s just a sign that you need a

little more connection—whether with friends, a community, or your faith. Take it one step

at a time, and remember: You are worthy of companionship, laughter, and love (yes,

even if you eat shredded cheese straight from the bag).

Reflection Questions

1. When was the last time you reached out to someone instead of waiting for them

to reach out to you?

2. How can you embrace your own company without feeling lonely?

3. What’s one small social step you can take this week?

4. How has comparing your life to social media impacted your sense of connection?

5. How can you lean on your faith during times of loneliness?

Scripture References for Reflection

● Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) – "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

● Psalm 68:6 (ESV) – "God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land."

● Matthew 28:20 (ESV) – "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."