Recently, I was liberated from a relationship that I had been in, on and off, for ten months. The experience, while filled with its highs and lows, called me to take a deeper look at my path to liberation—not just from this relationship but in so many areas of my life. As an entrepreneur immersed in the spiritual world and as a woman navigating the evolving dynamics of our time, I’ve come to realize that liberation comes in many forms. From redefining relationships and embracing my solo journey to carving out my unique entrepreneurial path, this moment in my life has been transformative.

Yet, even as I embrace this newfound sense of freedom, there are moments—like this past weekend—when a wave of loneliness hits me. It’s an all-too-familiar feeling that I know many of us experience, whether we’re entrepreneurs, healers, creatives, or simply walking our unique paths.

Loneliness doesn’t discriminate. It can show up when you’re in a crowded room, in a relationship, or even surrounded by loved ones. It’s a wave that rises unexpectedly, often catching us off guard. But over time, I’ve learned how to move through these waves, and I intentionally use the word move. For me, moving through feels more fluid and natural than pushing through. Moving invites flow; pushing can feel like resistance.

One morning, as I was coming to consciousness, I was greeted by one of those waves. It started with a thought: I miss having someone to wake up to. As I lay there with my eyes still closed, I allowed the feeling to settle in my chest for a moment. There’s something tender about admitting what we long for—it’s part of the process of owning where we are.

Then, as I slowly opened my eyes, there she was—Clementine, my cat, standing right in front of my face. Her bright eyes were fixed on me, and her little paws were delicately perched on the edge of the bed. She was waiting to greet me, as she does every morning. I couldn’t help but smile and think, Awe, I DO have someone to wake up to.

For the next 10 or 15 minutes, I let myself be fully present in the moment, loving on Clementine. I scratched her chin, stroked her soft fur, and listened to the soothing rhythm of her purrs. That simple act of connection filled my heart in a way I hadn’t expected. It reminded me that love comes in many forms—not just from romantic relationships but from the bonds we share with our furry companions, our friends, and ourselves.

Our pets have a way of reminding us of the beauty in the small, everyday moments. They don’t ask for much, just our presence and affection, yet they give us so much in return: unconditional love, companionship, and even a sense of purpose. Clementine has been my steadfast companion through the highs and lows of life, and on that morning, she reminded me that I’m never truly alone.

Embracing the Waves

When loneliness arises, it’s not something I resist or suppress. Instead, I see it as an opportunity—an invitation to reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with myself and others. Here’s how I move through these moments:

  1. Reminding Myself of the Love That Surrounds Me
    In those moments when loneliness feels overwhelming, I pause to remind myself of the abundance of love and support in my life. I think about my family, my friends, my community, and yes, my sweet Clementine. It’s so easy to focus on what’s missing, but shifting my attention to what I have reminds me that I’m never truly alone.
    Sometimes, I’ll even make a gratitude list. Writing down the names of people—and pets—who have shown me kindness or the memories that bring me joy helps to shift my perspective. This simple act of acknowledgment has a profound way of softening the edges of loneliness.
  2. Practicing Self-Care
    Loneliness can be a powerful teacher if we’re willing to listen. It often points to areas within ourselves that need attention and care. When I feel the wave rising, I take it as a cue to check in with myself. How am I feeling? What do I need right now?
    Self-care for me looks different depending on the day. Sometimes it’s a walk in nature, soaking in the peace and grounding energy of the outdoors. Other times, it’s journaling my thoughts, lighting candles, and meditating to center myself. And often, it’s simply spending quality time with Clementine, letting her remind me of the joy in life’s simple pleasures.
    The key is to recognize and acknowledge how I’m feeling without judgment. From there, I choose how I want to feel and use the tools that help me get there.
  3. Reaching Out to My Community
    Loneliness can sometimes trick us into believing we’re isolated, but it’s often a sign that we need connection. When this happens, I reach out to my community. Whether it’s a quick phone call to a friend, a coffee date with a mentor, or simply sharing my thoughts with someone I trust, connecting with others reminds me that I’m supported.
    I’ve also found strength in the communities I’ve built through my entrepreneurial and spiritual work. Being part of groups where people share similar values and goals provides a sense of belonging that’s incredibly grounding.
  4. Owning My Unique Path
    Finally, I remind myself that this journey—this life—is mine. Loneliness often arises when we compare our paths to others, forgetting that each of us is on a unique trajectory. As an entrepreneur, I’ve chosen a path that’s far from conventional, and with that comes both freedom and moments of solitude.
  5. Creating Movement
    When I feel stuck or overwhelmed by a wave of loneliness, I find a way to create movement—physically and energetically. Whether that’s going for a walk around the lake near my apartment, dancing to my favorite playlist, practicing yoga or qi gong, stretching, or even a quick workout, physical movement promotes energetic movement.
    This simple yet powerful action helps the wave move through me faster. As my body moves, my mind and emotions start to shift as well. There’s something liberating about feeling the energy flow, knowing that I’m actively participating in my own healing and transformation.

When I embrace the fact that this is my path and no one else’s, it brings a sense of empowerment. Yes, there are challenges, but there is also beauty in carving out something that’s entirely my own.

The Power of the Waves

As I’ve grown through this journey, I’ve come to see the waves of loneliness, ownership, love, and uncertainty as gifts. They are reminders of where I’ve been, where I’m going, and how far I’ve come. These waves don’t just happen to us; they happen for us. They propel us forward, helping us grow and evolve in ways we never thought possible.

Female Friends laughing together

But the key is to ride the wave, to flow with it rather than allowing it to pull us back too far. If we resist or let it drag us down, it can feel nearly impossible to move forward again. Instead, I’ve learned to let the waves guide me, trusting that they are part of the process.

Liberation Through Loneliness

Liberation, I’ve learned, isn’t about cutting ties or breaking free from external circumstances. True liberation comes from within. It’s about releasing the limiting beliefs, societal expectations, and internalized narratives that no longer serve us.

For me, this journey has been about redefining what relationships mean, both with others and with myself. It’s been about embracing my solo path, not as a punishment or a failure, but as an opportunity to build something extraordinary. It’s about recognizing that moments of loneliness are not weaknesses but opportunities for profound connection—first with myself and then with others.

I share this story because I know I’m not alone in feeling these waves. As women, as entrepreneurs, as individuals walking our unique paths, we all face moments of uncertainty and solitude. But these moments don’t define us. What defines us is how we choose to move through them.

Moving Forward

If you find yourself in the midst of a wave—whether it’s loneliness, uncertainty, or self-doubt—know that you have the power to move through it. Take a moment to remind yourself of the love in your life, including the love of your pets. Practice self-care and honor your feelings without judgment. Reach out to your community and lean on those who support you. And most importantly, own your journey.

This is your path. It won’t look like anyone else’s, and it doesn’t have to. Embrace the waves as they come, and trust that they are carrying you forward to something greater.

Liberation isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. It’s a process of shedding old layers, growing into new ones, and learning to love and trust yourself along the way. Wherever you are on your journey, know that you are exactly where you’re meant to be. Ride the wave, trust the flow, and keep moving forward.

Women in field jumping with balloons in hand

The Importance of Liberation

Liberation is one of the most empowering gifts I can give myself. It’s about feeling free to make my own choices, to live a life that aligns with my values and desires, and to unapologetically blaze my own trail. True liberation to me means reclaiming control over my emotions and mindset, refusing to be ruled by fear, doubt, or the weight of external pressures. It’s the freedom to decide what advice to embrace and what to leave behind—filtering out the projections, forcefulness, and beliefs of others so I can trust my own inner compass.

When I embrace liberation, I step into my power. It allows me to move through life authentically and intentionally, choosing paths that honor my unique journey. Liberation doesn’t mean rejecting the support or wisdom of others; it means discerning what resonates with me while releasing what doesn’t serve my highest good. In this freedom, I find the courage to build the life I desire, navigate challenges with grace, and thrive in my own light. Liberation is the foundation of self-empowerment—it’s where true growth and fulfillment begin.

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Wendy Watson

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