Creating connection

Teresa de Figueiredo

In 2021 I moved to San Diego, not knowing anyone in the city. Working remotely, I didn’t have an instant community and oftentimes felt very lonely.

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Sunrise walk at Torrey Pines

During this time, I read a book that changed how I viewed loneliness:

Together by Vivek Murthy⁠

. I learned that loneliness is our body’s signal (similar to hunger or thirst) letting us know we need more connection and I wasn’t alone in feeling lonely.

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“36% of all Americans—including 61% of young adults and 51% of mothers with young children—feel “serious loneliness.” —

Harvard article⁠

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I realized that I (and all humans) crave connection, and started slowly and intentionally building connection. Over the next year in San Diego I was fortunate to make strong friendships, find community at a yoga studio, & enjoy being by myself and trying new things.

However, it wasn’t easy, and I still feel lonely sometimes. I created this doc to help others who might be feeling alone find hope & gain concrete ideas on how to feel a bit more connected.

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picking up a new hobby

You are not alone & being lonely is nothing to be ashamed of!

First identify

Where do I want more connection?⁠

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