We all sometimes feel like we’d like to talk to someone who understands us without putting any pressure on us. Did you know that people who are going through a tough time are less likely to reach out to a friend or a relative? Indeed, most people find it stressful to show different sides of their personality to friends or family who might misinterpret it. Imagine that you’ve been having a tough day at work, and you vent about it to a good friend. Your friend listens patiently. They make you feel better by saying they understand. And just as it started, your stress disappears. At least, until the next day when your friend thinking you need further moral support sends you a message to ask how you are doing at work. You receive the same message the day after and the day after… Emotional support and understanding can be a great thing, but it also can be stressful. Sometimes, you just need someone who cares about you in the moment with no long-term consequences.
Being praised for your work
We are all working hard to navigate the pandemic restrictions and obstacles. It doesn’t matter what your job is. Chances are that you’ve had to adjust rapidly and without any support to the pandemic situation. Teachers have had a tough time building lessons that are digitally friendly and engaging for their students. Thankfully, the teaching community is active online. Many shared tips for planning their lessons remotely and consolidate understanding. Companies have needed to create online content and support for their clients during lockdown. Regardless of your job, you’ve overcome challenges to give the best possible service in the circumstances. We all appreciate that a pay rise or additional bonus may not be an option. We just wanted to help our audience as best as we could. So it is meaningful when the people you’ve been helping, may they be clients or students, recognise your hard work and thank you for it.
Breaking from the monotony of lockdown
Anyone who lives on their own has had a tough time adjusting to the loneliness of the pandemic. Being able to reach out to someone who’s there for you when you need them has been a game-changer during lockdown. Talking to a stranger without any consequence allows you to end the conversation whenever you want to. Social media platforms such as Twitter or even Reddit have given us the opportunity to talk to strangers when and where we need it. Similarly, if you fancy something a little more flirtatious without any engagement, the rise in chat line use shows the true impact of loneliness. People don’t miss deep and meaningful relationships, as most of us have friends and relatives. But it’s the casual everyday connections we seek.
Am I feeling down?
Mood swings are common. You can experience short periods of depressive mood during the pandemic. Yet, talking to friends can be counterproductive. You sometimes just want someone who’s on your side and listens without trying to judge or to sort things out. Online counselling has gained popularity during lockdown. We naturally find it easier to talk to strangers about the things that hurt us.
Being surrounded by people who care about you makes a great deal of difference for your emotional well-being. But sometimes, you don’t need a friend. Sometimes, you need to talk to a stranger who recognises your needs in the moment without trying to pursue any long-term consequence.
Collaborative post
