People feel lonely for a number of reasons, including simple social awkwardness and intentional isolation. Everyone experiences loneliness. Luckily, though, there are a number of ways to overcome it.Get involved in activities Join a sports league or take a class. Volunteer within your community. If you are very shy, find a group for social anxiety, even if it has to be online. Look on places like Craigslist or local news websites for activities in your area.Don't attend functions with the sole idea of making friends or meeting people. Try to go with no expectations whatsoever and to enjoy yourself regardless of what happens. Look for activities that interest you and that also involve groups of people like book clubs, church groups, political campaigns, concerts and art exhibitions.Challenge yourself to take the initiative in social relationships Don't wait for people to approach you — you approach people. Ask the person if they want to chat or get a coffee. You must always show interest in other people before they will show interest in you, if they ever do.Realize that we all get lonely It doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you. People are particularly prone to loneliness during major life transitions, especially ones made for the better. If you're changing in ways such as exploring new alternatives and paths for yourself, you're bound to get a little lonely as you look for people who share your new interests and thoughts.Differentiate between loneliness and solitude Loneliness is when you are unhappy to be alone. Solitude is when you are happy to be alone. You're not in solitude when you want to be with people. There are people out there who you can relate to and become close with.Call or get together with the people you know Even if they aren't who you want to be with right now, human contact makes establishing more contact easier. This includes your mother and the guy at the deli counter.Remember that you are trying to make a place for yourself in another person's life, and be considerate. Do not think that just showing up will win you instant friends. It can be a long, painstaking process and most people you meet already have their own friends and lives.Spend time with your family Even if you don't have a great history with a family member, chances are they will take you up on an invitation. You can share friends and meet new people together. This will help diminish that awkward feeling of being alone in public.Don't allow yourself to wallow Instead of persistently dwelling on how alone you feel, do anything to get your mind off it. Take a walk, ride your bike or read a book. Explore activities and hobbies, and don't be afraid to try new things. Having experience gives you a basis upon which you can comment in more social situations (thus talk to more people) and strike up conversations that will interest other people. Keep yourself busy. Having down time is what causes feelings of loneliness to creep in. Throw yourself into work or extracurricular activities.Consider getting a pet If you're truly struggling without companionship, consider adopting a dog or cat from your local animal shelter. Pets have been domestic companions for centuries for a reason, and winning the trust and affection of an animal can be a deeply rewarding experience.Be a pleasant presence Draw people toward yourself by providing enjoyable company. Be complimentary rather than critical. For a casual comment, don't nitpick other people's clothes, habits or hair. They don't need to be reminded they have a small stain on their shirt when they can't do anything about it. They do need to hear that you think their sweater is cool or you read their article. Don't make a big deal of it, but just casually mention it when you like something. This is one of the best ice-breakers around and it builds trust steadily over time as people come to understand that you won't criticize them.If you aren't already, start exercising; consider joining a gym This is a good time in your life to work on self-improvement.