Have you ever found yourself in a season of waiting? Perhaps you are waiting for something tangible such as a job offer or an important decision. Or, you are waiting for something personal – desiring to start a family, wanting to belong, or for your mental health to improve. Regardless of the reason why you may be waiting, it may feel difficult to be in this type of situation or season. It can stir up emotions of discomfort, doubt, or uncertainty. Alongside these emotions, waiting may feel incredibly lonely.
We live in a society focused on instant gratification – from same day delivery to quick-fix solutions – waiting may feel especially difficult when we are trained to believe everything needs to happen immediately. With the instant gratification society, we are taught to bypass anything that feels difficult or brings discomfort, whether this means we distract ourselves or try to push down emotions that may feel hard to experience. But here is the thing: waiting is inevitable. While it may feel deeply uncomfortable, it can also be a powerful opportunity for growth. Here are a few ways we can cope with the loneliness of waiting.
Identify What You Are Waiting For
First, it is helpful to begin naming what you are waiting for in your life. When you have clarity on what you are waiting for you then have the ability to name what you are potentially needing, whether support or perhaps you are needing comfort when you feel lonely. Also, regardless of what you are waiting on – a shift in your life or an answer – identifying what you are waiting on can provide some relief as it offers insight into your internal world.
Explore How You Respond To Waiting
It is normal and valid if you experience discomfort while waiting, as it may create an uneasiness or impatient feeling. I invite you to think about how you respond when you are waiting on something. Do you feel stressed? Are you critical of yourself? Do you feel antsy and you notice you may be ruminating about what you are waiting on?
Begin paying attention to how you react to discomfort as this will provide insight to you about your internal world. I often say that it is empowering to understand what is happening internally for us and it provides helpful information. For example, if you notice yourself feeling stressed when you are waiting, maybe you could practice a mindfulness exercise to slow your nervous system down and relax your body. Or perhaps you need to move your body in a joyful way to release the stress. So, instead of dismissing what you are experiencing, I encourage you to embrace it.
Share Your Experience
Waiting may feel isolating and lonely but you do not have to go through it alone. Consider reaching out to someone you trust – whether a close friend, a therapist, or a family member. It may feel relieving to talk about what you are experiencing and it can be another way to process your emotions.
Even though they may not have the answer you are looking for, they can be a safe space to process what you are experiencing. Sometimes being heard and listened to can provide relief and ease the loneliness that the season of waiting may bring.
Here at Anchored Counseling Co., we know the uneasiness that a season of waiting can bring. It is not always easy, but you are not alone. Therapy can be a wonderful way to get the support you are needing and it can provide a safe space for you to share all your emotions. Whether you are waiting for healing or change – we are here for you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Compassionate Affirmation: “I am worthy of being cared for in this season of waiting.”
Additional Resource: If this blog resonates with you and you are looking for professional support, please fill out this form to get set up with one of our compassionate therapists that can help you in your season of waiting or for other mental health issues that may arise. You can fill out the form here.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
Laura
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
Owner + Director
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Co. to assist in this mission.
The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirmed, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life.
To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or contact us here.
