LONELINESS DEFINITION:The feeling of being isolated or cut off PHYSICAL SIGNALS AND BEHAVIORS: A longing gaze Disinterest in one’s appearance (bland clothing, lackluster hair, etc.) Being meticulous with one’s appearance in hopes of attracting interest Slumped shoulders Limp posture A monotone voice Looking down when walking in public Watching people furtively An expressionless, unsmiling face Sullenness Being generous in hopes of currying favor Spying or eavesdropping on others to feel a part of something Filling one’s schedule with work or volunteering to avoid downtime Using books, the Internet, and TV to escape An expression that crumples at other people’s affection displays Hugging oneself A lack of eye contact False bravado Tears, sadness A heavy sigh Talking to oneself Feeling a sense of comfort from a full mailbox—even if it’s full of junk mail Stroking oneself (e.g., rubbing an arm absently for contact) Using bright or eccentric clothing choices to get attention or to stay upbeat Doting on someone or something (a neighbor, a pet, etc.) Talking to strangers to feel connected Asking questions out of a desire to converse rather than because of curiosity Relishing opportunities to talk or engage (e.g., when the mail is delivered) Rambling when conversing with others Trying out dating apps and the like Adhering to a routine (eating the same meals, visiting the same park, etc.) Buying oneself gifts or small indulgences to boost one’s mood Living vicariously through an alter ego or avatar (via social networking, gaming, etc.) INTERNAL SENSATIONS: A thickness in the throat, signaling the onset of tears A longing so intense it manifests itself as an ache or pain Insomnia Fatigue MENTAL RESPONSES: Avoiding crowds, large events, or social situations A desire to be included or wanted Anger and bitterness Daydreaming about people one would like to have relationships with A feeling of unworthiness ACUTE OR LONG-TERM RESPONSES FOR THIS EMOTION: Doubting oneself; a lack of confidence Weight gain Believing that one is unattractive or has a boring personality Uncontrollable crying bouts Despairing of ever being able to change High blood pressure Workaholic tendencies Bingeing to compensate (eating, drinking, shopping, gambling, etc.) Hoarding pets Suicidal thoughts SIGNS THAT THIS EMOTION IS BEING SUPPRESSED: Committing too quickly to anyone who shows interest Choosing negative relationships over being alone Being too friendly and coming across as desperate Frequently calling family or friends Solitary activities that show a craving for contact (e.g., people-watching from the porch) MAY ESCALATE TO:Resignation,Sadness,Hurt,Depressed,Anger MAY DE-ESCALATE TO:Insecurity,Unappreciated,Neglected ASSOCIATED POWER VERBS: Ache, avoid, binge, cling cope, cry, deflect, dodge dote, drag, droop, eavesdrop emulate, endure, fake, fantasize hide, indulge, languish, laze long, mirror, mope, numb plod, pretend, sidestep, slouch slump, stoop, weep, wish yearn WRITER’S TIP:Body movements should never be random. Everything a character does should have a specific intent: to achieve an end, reveal emotion, or to characterize.