FEAR THESAURUS

LONELINESS



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HELPFUL TIP:

A deeply embedded fear often stems from trauma, so it can be helpful to explore emotional wounds that may be a factor. Your character might also become risk-averse, which can create problems in their relationships and limit their fulfillment. And for a character to achieve their story goal, they must overcome any fear-based thinking that's holding them back. The Character Builder is a great resource for pulling all these factors together.
NOTES:
The need to be understood and validated is part of the human experience, but some, even surrounded by people, still feel alone. This type of emotional disconnectedness is distressing, so characters may go to unhealthy lengths to forge deep connections. Unfortunately, doing this can inadvertently drive people away. This fear differs from PHYSICAL ISOLATION—being physically separated from others—so it's important to know which may be in play for your character.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE:
Politeness
Initiating conversations
Moving close to people to feel connected
Listening in to the conversations of others in public spaces
Lingering at the checkout to enjoy a conversation for a few moments longer  
Regularly calling loved ones to check in
Pursuing many social hobbies and interests
Seeking validation from others 
Struggling with even constructive criticism because it makes the character feel judged
Participating in online chats and social media to connect with people
Gravitating toward activities that support deeper interactions (therapy, a Bible study, coffee with a friend, etc.)
Preferring small group and one-on-one interactions to large gatherings
Attending many social events
Looking for opportunities to start a conversation
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COMMON INTERNAL STRUGGLES:
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FLAWS THAT MAY EMERGE:
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HINDRANCES AND DISRUPTIONS TO THE CHARACTER'S LIFE:
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EMOTIONAL WOUNDS IT COULD STEM FROM:
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SCENARIOS THAT MIGHT AWAKEN THIS FEAR :
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HUMAN NEEDS THAT COULD BE IMPACTED:
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GOALS MADE DIFFICULT BY THIS FEAR:
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CONFLICT SCENARIOS THAT OFFER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES:
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HOW THE CHARACTER CAN MINIMIZE OR OVERCOME IT:
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