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Relationship Advice: We can feel lonelier around others than alone

Though it may sound counterintuitive, we can feel lonelier in a crowd than alone at home reading a book or watching TV.

I am a bookish introvert and will never apologize for it. I crave solitude, especially following a social function or a day of meetings at work. I see no better way to recharge than by plopping down on the couch with a book or pen and paper.

What I've come to realize is that, when forced to choose between the company of a large group of people and my own, I have no qualms about spending an afternoon all by my lonesome.

In a large group, people tend to speak over each other. There's very little substance and a copious amount of chit chat. If being by myself isn't an option, I prefer small groups of no more than 2 or 3 people. Such groups are small enough where everyone can get a word in edgewise.

Unfortunately, we can also feel lonelier in relationships than alone, and it's these kind of relationships that should be avoided at all costs.
Whether it's that the person is indifferent or taking the other for granted, being subject to such treatment isn't good for your well-being.

So, pick your friends and partners closely. It's not worth it to be in relationships where you feel like a second-class citizen. It's better to be alone than in bad company.

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