We have to take the good along with the bad

The real cause of loneliness is failure to emotionally open ourselves up. In today’s world, people have become more disconnected. They’ve become so mechanical and practical, which leaves us all feeling isolated. Therefore, many think that getting into a relationship is the best way to deal with loneliness. The question is, how connected are you to the other person in the relationship? Are you truly emotionally invested? Nowadays, people are more exposed to the rest of the world, and with social networking, everyone knows about everyone’s lives. Most individuals can’t help but compare themselves to others, without realising that the photographs they see may be lies. However, that comparison causes you to lose appreciation for what you have, making you feel unhappy. When it comes to partners, people can have so many options. They tend to think, ‘I’ll get better opportunities’, and thus become overconfident. Consequently, people and relationships are seen as being replaceable. Loneliness happens when there is an emotional disconnect. We no longer seek to fix what’s broken; we just want to get something new or different. On the one hand, a spouse can offer social, emotional and financial support to help you get rid of loneliness. On the other, conflicts in a relationship can strain you, disappoint you and make you feel more alone. It’s one thing to be lonely when you are single, praying God will bring the perfect soulmate into our life. It’s an altogether different scenario when your ‘soulmate’ is living with you and you still feel lonely; the heart aches! Few people are not emotionally ready to accept that a romantic relationship comes with a trade-off. We have to take the good along with the bad. From Ms Deepika Kasturi Finance professional, based in Abu Dhabi