Alone and Lonely

A series of events happened this week that left me feeling unexpectedly lonely. Greetings Everyday Spy, A series of events happened this week that left me feeling unexpectedly lonely. Loneliness is a dangerous feeling. It is one of the few emotions that intensifies with time. It impairs judgment, logic, and decision making. And unlike other emotions like sadness, fear, or anger - loneliness can kill. 3 out of every 5 American adults claim that they are lonely - that’s 60% of the American public! Since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, more than 80% of adults have reported ongoing loneliness. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have called loneliness a public health risk in the United States. Their research has linked loneliness to a 29% increase in risk for heart disease, 32% increased risk for stroke, and more than a 45% increase in risk for early mortality. While most loneliness is reported in those over the age of 50, young people, minorities, and women are also flagged as at-risk groups. Empirical evidence from the UK, the US, and beyond suggests that at least once in the last 3 days you have felt lonely, just like I did. An incredible 24% of parents and professionals report high levels of loneliness, despite having people around them all the time. Because loneliness has nothing to do with BEING alone… it happens when you FEEL alone. CIA taught me that the best way to combat loneliness is to remember that you are not alone in your mission. Loneliness plagues officers serving undercover - especially on long ops where you go weeks or months living deep within your cover. You may be surrounded by people every day, but they do not know your true identity. They are not aware of your mission. The name, the face, and the title you carry are just the tools you use to successfully execute your objectives. They are there to assist you, not define you. Your knowledge, values, and purpose are much bigger than what the world gets to see. The same is true in your everyday life, with your kids, coworkers, and even your spouse. They may see you as a parent, employee, or provider first. They may be blind to your goals, ambitions, and desires. And that can make you feel lonely, ignored, or left behind. But you are not alone - not as long as I have anything to say about it. Because I am here, and I am executing my mission right beside you every day. And behind you and me is a whole [#SpyTribe]( of others working just as hard as us; learning, mastering, and executing. You are not alone - you are on mission! Godspeed, #EverydaySpy P.S. - [Ready to sit-in on private conversations with real-world cover operatives from around the world?]( your unlimited access to ‘Shadow Lessons’ today!]( Follow @EverydaySpy on Social Media! [Facebook]( [Twitter]( [LinkedIn]( [YouTube]( [Instagram]( Andrew Bustamante, Founder of EverydaySpy.com, is a former covert CIA Intelligence officer, decorated US Air Force Combat Veteran, and respected Fortune 500 senior advisor. Learn more from Andrew on his Podcast (The Everyday Espionage Podcast) and by following @EverydaySpy on your favorite social media platform. This email was sent to {EMAIL}. Don't want to receive these emails anymore? [Unsubscribe]( EverydaySpy, 411 Walnut St. #20309, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043