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Why it’s okay to feel empty – and how it helps you reconnect with yourself

Writer's picture: Merle ReimersMerle Reimers

Do you know that feeling? You wake up, everything seems as usual, and yet something is missing: you feel utterly empty. As if something important is absent, even though you “should” have everything. Maybe you’re wondering what’s wrong with you. Or why others seem to navigate life so effortlessly while you feel lost inside.

 

First of all: It’s okay to feel this way. Really. That emptiness, as uncomfortable as it is, could be your wake-up call. Your first step toward yourself, toward self-love, acceptance, and growth. And yes, you can climb out of this hole, this void. Let’s explore where this feeling comes from, what it’s trying to tell you, and most importantly, how to reconnect with yourself.


Woman walking with a statement about feeling lost and empty on her shirt

Why do I feel so empty?


This question might haunt you, especially in the stillness of the night when the world is quiet, and your thoughts grow louder. That emptiness can have many causes:

  • Emotional exhaustion: You give and give—at work, in relationships, or daily life—and forget to refill your own cup. If you’re curious about simple ways to recharge, check out this blog post.

  • Disconnection from yourself: Living on autopilot and meeting expectations that aren’t even your own can make you lose touch with what truly matters to you.

  • Unmet needs: Maybe you’ve been suppressing your dreams, emotions, or desires for so long that they’re now crying out for attention.


Here’s the thing: Feeling empty isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you’re aware something is off—and that awareness is the first step toward change.

 


Am I alone in feeling this way?


Absolutely not. This feeling is more common than you think. The problem? Hardly anyone talks about it because they fear being seen as weak.

 

Think about this: The colleague who seems so composed and ambitious might be feeling the same way. The friend who’s always smiling and radiating positivity could be hiding her emptiness behind a cheerful facade.

 

You’re not alone, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Emptiness is a universal feeling that comes into our lives to shake us awake.

 


How can I reconnect with myself?


Here’s where it gets exciting: Emptiness isn’t an endpoint; it’s a beginning. It’s a sign that it’s time to rebuild your connection with yourself. Here are some practical steps:

 

  • Give yourself permission to pause: Take intentional time to reflect on your feelings and your life instead of brushing them aside. Sit down, take a deep breath, and ask yourself:

    What am I really feeling right now?

    What do I need in this moment?


  • Write It Down: Journaling is a powerful way to organize your thoughts and feelings. Start with questions like:

    When was the last time I felt truly alive?

    What feels heavy in my life right now?

    What gives me energy?


  • Find Small Rituals: It doesn’t have to be anything grand. A short walk in the park, a morning cup of tea, or a breathing exercise during stressful moments can help you reconnect.

 


How do I take care of myself when I feel empty?


Self-care sounds lovely, but when you’re feeling empty, it can seem overwhelming. Start small:

  • Keep it simple: It doesn’t have to be a 90-minute yoga session. What about three minutes of gentle stretching?

  • Be kind to yourself: Talk to yourself like you would to your best friend. Would you criticize her for feeling drained? Of course not. You’d encourage her to rest and do something good for herself.

  • Allow yourself to rest: Emptiness often stems from overexertion, from losing sight of your own needs. Give yourself permission to take breaks—without guilt.

 

 

What if the emptiness doesn’t go away?


It’s natural to worry about this, but the truth is, you hold the power to shape your life. Change is always a process. Here’s some encouragement:

 

  • Every small step counts. Even if you feel just a little better today or have one good day, that’s progress. You are the sum of all the decisions you’ve made so far.

  • You don’t have to do it alone. Talk to someone you trust—a friend, a coach, or a therapist. If the emptiness lingers, it might mean it’s time to address deeper issues—and that’s okay. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength.

 

 

How do I figure out what’s really missing?


It’s tough to pinpoint what’s missing when everything feels foggy. Try this:


  • Listen to your body. Your body is an amazing guide. Do you often feel tired, restless, or tense? These are signals pointing to what you truly need.

  • Visualize your ideal life. Close your eyes and imagine your perfect day. Where are you? What are you doing? Who’s with you? This exercise can clarify what truly matters to you.


Ask yourself: What would bring me joy right now? Maybe it’s a quick walk, dancing in your living room, reading a book, singing loudly in the car, or simply sitting in silence.

 


Can I ever fully get rid of the emptiness?


The honest answer? Emptiness is like any other feeling—it may pop up from time to time. But here’s the beauty: You can learn to manage it and even use it as a tool for growth.

When you understand yourself better, you’ll see that emptiness often comes as an invitation—an invitation to reconnect with yourself. And the more you nurture that connection, the less often this feeling will visit.

 

 

How do I set boundaries when I feel empty?


Emptiness often arises from giving too much without setting limits. Here are a few tips:

  • Say “No” without guilt. A “no” to others is a “yes” to yourself. Practice saying, “I’d love to help, but I don’t have the capacity right now.”

  • Protect your time. Schedule time for yourself and treat it like an unmissable meeting.

 


Where do I start when everything feels overwhelming?


If you don’t know where to begin, that’s okay. Start with a tiny step:

 

  1. Place your hand on your heart and take a few deep breaths.

  2. Write down one thought that’s been weighing on you.

  3. Step outside for five minutes and feel the fresh air on your skin.

 


You Are Not Alone – And You Are Enough


This emptiness you’re feeling isn’t your enemy. It’s a message waiting to be understood. A reminder that you matter and deserve care. That there’s something special within you, waiting to shine.


And most importantly, that it’s okay to take care of yourself—not just everyone else. You have the strength to reconnect with yourself and rediscover your inner light.

 

Sending you a big virtual hug,

Merle

 

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