Surviving minor isolation happily

[anon]

I've secured a house to create art in for the next 2 months in an unfamiliar town. I'm a little nervous that I'll get lonely or depressed not seeing and friends family or loved ones. While I've already weighed emotional distress into my decision to go through with it, I would really welcome some strategies to stay as content as possible. At a certain point I think I'll have to go out. but I'm worried that going out on a backdrop of isolation might take on a more depressing tone.

When I was little I had horrible experiences when separated from my family. Obviously, at 26, I'm more emotionally mature. But I'm still worried a bit so if anyone has gone camping alone or gone on any sort of retreat or even done anything like I'm describing, I'd love some advice.

[Smiley Navy Wife]

As a military spouse who moves often and has a spouse who deployes often, the number one thing I've learned is to KEEP BUSY.

Volunteer, get a part time job, take up a new hobby, learn more about your new area, plan little things to do each day-- so that there is "purpose" and something to look forward to --- even if it just means going to the gym, to the pool, etc.

Be open to new opportunties, new things and new people. Reach out. Amazing things can happen when you least expect it-- if you are willing to explore and accept.

Keep in touch with your family, but don't rely on them as your sole source of emotional support. If you do, you will, unfortunatly probably be dissapointed. Support comes in many forms and from many places and everyone in your life-- past and present. Again-- reach out.

Ultimately, look at this move as wonderful opportunity for growth, and experience of a lifetime in the journey known as life.

I've moved 4 times, living in 3 different states and two different countries in the 7 yrs I've been married. I remember when I moved from my "home state" at age 19 to be with my husband 2000 miles away. It was quite a change and culture shock-- not only then, but with each move. However, I wouldn;t change it for the world. I've made life long friendships and done things I'd never dreamed I could or would. It hasn't always been easy, but its always been worth it in the end.

Embrace it....

:) SNW

(ps. in case your wondering, I do have multiple medical issues and have had to get used to different drs, etc in all the different places)

[tic chick]

anon,

you have a perfect conversation starter ...your art!

go to the libray in town. read their newspaper. usually one day of the week they will have a column or section about "what's happening on the weekend". a lot of times there is something art related in or around your community.

also, check out the university near you and see if their are any art-related events posted in their hallways.

and, the art store where you buy your supplies could be a source of information.

i think you have a lot of negative asssociations with being alone that come from your past...all understandable. but, instead of seeing this as a time where you might experience "emotional distress", try to look at it as a time to establish "emotional independence".

you will be fine,
jeannie

[joy]

would just love to "see" some of your art.

would you consider just "showing" some here?

i think what you are doing is just great.

my only advice i could give you is -

just to go ahead and do it!

you have made a great start. now just carry on and do it!

[houghchrst]

Anon, how very brave of you. Maybe making short forays out at first and then as you become familiar with where you are try expanding to someplace new. This doesn't have to be done quickly and maybe only to places you need to go but honestly you may miss something that might inspire the artist in you. Find out what there is around you that might be interesting to see. Find out if there is a local visitor's bureau.

The best place to check would be the computer itself. Almost every city has a website. Check them out ahead of time so you will be familiar with where you are going and how you will get there. That may lower the stress level.