Only You

What if being alone isn’t something to fix — but something to embrace? We've been sold the story that happiness requires a partner. That being single is a waiting room, a problem to solve, a gap to fill. But what if the most transformative relationship you'll ever have is the one with yourself? Drawing from over fifteen years of clinical experience, as well as her own journey through heartbreak and healing, Dr Marny Lishman reveals why solitude isn't something to fear, but is instead a powerful catalyst for growth, creativity and genuine contentment. Whether you’re healing from heartbreak, navigating divorce, or simply tired of waiting for ‘the one’, Only You shows you how to embrace being alone and create a life filled with deeply personal joy. Through evidence-based psychology, real-world stories and practical exercises, you’ll discover how to stop waiting for someone or something else — and embrace growth, meaning and true fulfilment. In this book, you’ll learn how to: Distinguish between being alone and being lonely — and discover why that difference changes everything Heal from heartbreak and build emotional resilience that lasts Master your mind and emotions instead of being controlled by them Create a fulfilling life that doesn’t depend on romantic partnership Develop the inner strength to choose relationships more wisely. Only You is your companion for building confidence, clarity and contentment on your own. Stop putting your life on hold, and discover the unexpected gifts that emerge when you learn to truly enjoy your own company.

Introduction ix Part I Being Alone Doesn't Have to Be Lonely 1 1 Feeling Lonely 3 2 The Trouble with Loneliness 11 3 Becoming Alone 17 4 Lonely But Not Alone 27 5 Solitude Can Save You 33 Part II From Heartbreak to Healing 41 6 The Messiness of Heartbreak 43 7 Sitting with a Broken Heart 49 8 Healing After Goodbye 57 9 Claiming Your Emotional Baggage 61 10 Tapping into Your Wisdom 67 Part III Being Only You 73 11 Relish in Your Presence 75 12 Follow Your Inner Compass 85 13 Master Your Mind 91 14 Listen to Your Emotions 101 15 Own Your Inner Strength 107 16 Tap into Your Creativity 115 17 Nurture Your Relationships 123 18 Self-Compassion for Your Lonely 133 19 Discover Your True Self 139 20 Alone Too Long 147 21 Not Lonely and Not Alone 153 Epilogue 161 101 Lovely Things to do When You're Alone 167 The Only You Monthly Review 173 References 177 Acknowledgements 179