There’s a popular saying that “everybody needs somebody.” It’s a comforting thought, the idea that there’s always someone who will be there to lift you up, wipe your tears, and guide you through life’s darkest moments but for many of us, this sentiment doesn’t reflect our reality.

My journey has been one of solitude. Through heartbreak, setbacks, and triumphs, I had to wipe my own tears, found my own strength, and carried myself forward without the support of friends or family. It’s a story of independence, resilience, and the realization that you can be your own “somebody.”

The Loneliness of the Journey 

Don't get me wrong there were plenty times in my life when I longed for a hand to hold or a shoulder to cry on. When I faced challenges whether it was personal loss, financial struggles, or moments of self-doubt, I found myself alone. No one was there to reassure me that I would be okay or to share the burden of my struggles. I had to:

• Wipe my own tears: After long nights of crying, I had to pull myself together and face the world again.

• Pick myself back up: Even when the weight of failure seemed unbearable, I had to find the strength to start over.

• Became my own cheerleader: In moments of accomplishment, I had no one to celebrate with but myself.

Reframing Solitude

At first, the absence of support felt like a punishment, like I was somehow unworthy of connection or care but over time, I began to see solitude not as a curse, but as an opportunity. For example, being alone taught me to trust my instincts, make decisions for myself, and rely on my own resilience. I became resourceful and self-sufficient because I had no other choice.

I found strength in self-reflection and without the noise of external opinions, I was forced to confront my fears, insecurities, and doubts head-on. This self-reflection allowed me to grow in ways I might not have if I had someone else to lean on.

I learned to become my own “hero” I realized that the person I was searching for the one who would understand me, comfort me, and support me was already there. It was me.

Breaking the Myth of “Everybody Needs Somebody”

The idea that everyone needs someone else to be whole can be limiting and disempowering. While human connection is valuable, it’s not always guaranteed. More importantly, it’s not the only path to strength and fulfillment.

What I’ve learned:

• You are more than enough: Even when you’re alone, you are capable of facing life’s challenges.

• Support is a bonus, not a necessity: If you have it, cherish it. If you don’t, know that you can still thrive.

• Your journey is uniquely yours: Walking it alone doesn’t make it any less meaningful.

It took some time, but I’ve found peace in my solitude. I’ve learned to be kind to myself, to celebrate my wins, and to embrace my journey without longing for validation from others. Yes, it has been hard, but it’s also been transformative. It’s shown me that I am stronger than I ever imagined, and that I don’t need external support to achieve my dreams or find happiness. Strength isn’t always about who stands beside you it’s about who stands within you.

 Quote “I wiped my own tears, picked myself back up, and became the somebody I needed. And that is enough.”