12 things you can do to feel a little less lonely

12 things you can do to feel a little less lonely12 things you can do to feel a little less lonelyWhether youre going through a break-up, you just moved to a new city, or youre just simply in a funk, its normal to feel lonely every once in a while. And while social media may seem like it can boost your spirits, the negativity that sometimes accompanies apps like Twitter and Instagram can force you into comparing yourself to others. Thats never a healthy practice, especially when youre feeling down.Weve outlined a few suggestions for the times when you feel like life just isnt going your way, so you dont feel the need to hop on Facebook.1. Surround yourself with familiar thingsBlankets from home, old movies that remind you of your friends from high school, photographs from college, a candle that smells like your parents home. Use familiar objects to remind yourself of all the wonderful people in your life who care about you.2. Take an exercise classExercise classes help you get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. Introduce yourself (if youre feeling up for it), and if not, youre still surrounded by new faces and getting some kind of social interaction. Plus youre getting those endorphins flowing, which is always a positive thing.3. Join a clubIf youre sporty, join a summer softball league. If that suggestion is anything but desirable, try a book club, a gardening club, a Star Wars club (no judgment). Make one of your interests into a social hobby4. Seek out popular podcasts, newsletters, or books to take your mind off thingsListen to motivational podcasts, sign up for wellness newsletters, or read books that you can completely engulf yourself in.5. Leave the apartmentGet out of your place and do something you would normally stay-in and do. Go to the movie theater instead of watching Netflix in your bed. Read your book on a bench at a dog park. Power-walk around the lager instead of inside your apartments gym. Find some way to leave.6. Update your routi neGo to a different coffee shop. Explore a new park. Get dinner from a restaurant youve never been to before. Expose yourself to new environments, see new things, and meet new people.7. Take a classChannel your inner Chrissy Teigen and sign up for a cooking class. If youre more of a bookworm, take a literature course. And if youre more on the adventurous side, take a foreign language class.8. Plan a fun trip or adventure with old friendsGive yourself something to look forward to with familiar faces. Exposing yourself to new people and new environments can be scary and intimidating Make time for old friends to relieve this somewhat overwhelming feeling.9. Practice journalingWriting out your feelings can release the tension and stress youre experiencing. It can also help you better understand and come to terms with your emotions.10. Treat yourselfThis is exactly how it sounds. That facial youve been wanting? Get it. That massage your lower back has been begging for? Make the appointme nt. That overdue haircut youre reminded of daily by your split ends? Schedule it.11. Practice mindfulnessMindfulness practices like guided meditation or yoga can be beneficial to both your body and your mind. Attend a local class or practice in your own home with a YouTube tutorial12. Tell someone how you are feelingMake sure its someone you trust. Whether thats your mom, your best friend from college, or your therapist, talk out your emotions. Reach out to your best confidante and tell them youre going through a bit of a rough patch. Dont be afraid to let yourself be vulnerable just saying how you feel out loud sometimes can help.A version of this post previously appeared onFairygodboss, the largest career community that helps women get the inside tolles ding on pay, corporate culture, benefits, and work flexibility. Founded in 2015, Fairygodboss offers company ratings, job listings, discussion boards, and career advice.