E35: Living in New York: How to Manage a Lonely State of Mind

Calm Talks

In this episode of "Calm Talks," hosts Adeel and Ant delve into the experience of loneliness in bustling metropolitan cities like New York. They examine the paradox of feeling alone despite being surrounded by people and discuss the transient nature of such cities, making it challenging to build deep, meaningful relationships. Adeel and Ant share personal experiences of loneliness, both in New York and in their respective hometowns of Karachi, Pakistan, and the UK.
The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding oneself as a key step in overcoming loneliness. By identifying personal needs and interests, individuals can engage in activities and join groups that align with their preferences, ultimately avoiding feelings of isolation. They highlight the significance of being comfortable with one's own company and avoiding unhealthy coping mechanisms or vices.
Additionally, Adeel and Ant discuss the diverse opportunities available in cities like New York, where individuals can explore various communities, hobbies, and activities to meet new people and potentially find their circle of friends. They encourage listeners to step outside their comfort zones, try new things, and embrace new experiences as a means of combating loneliness.
The hosts further examine the positive aspects of loneliness, particularly in terms of personal growth. Ant shares how loneliness can serve as a catalyst for self-reflection and exploring new avenues of growth. They reflect on their experiences during the pandemic and discuss the impact of limited community and connection on personal development.
Recognizing the distinction between being alone and feeling lonely is another crucial point of discussion. Ant emphasizes the need to understand this difference, as being alone does not necessarily imply loneliness. Adeel adds that loneliness can have detrimental effects, underscoring the significance of human connection and a sense of community.
Chapters
(0:00) Episode intro
(1:48) Feeling a sense of belonging to New York.
(4:05) The first step to avoiding loneliness is to understand yourself.
(8:41) Knowing yourself and your vices.
(10:55) Loneliness during the pandemic.
(14:14) Focus on the things you want to achieve.
(16:40) The importance of community.
(17:40) Be intentional with how you combat loneliness
(18:30) Episode summary

Support the Show.

Visit our website
Follow us on Instagram
Listen on your favorite podcast platform
Like this show? Please leave us a review here!

Chapters

1. Episode intro (00:00:00)

2. Feeling a sense of belonging to New York. (00:01:48)

3. The first step to avoid loneliness is to understand yourself. (00:04:05)

4. Knowing yourself and your vices. (00:08:41)

5. Loneliness during the pandemic. (00:10:55)

6. Focus on the things you want to achieve. (00:14:14)

7. The importance of community. (00:16:40)

8. Be intentional with how you combat loneliness (00:17:40)

9. Episode summary (00:18:30)