I'm 47 years old and have never had a serious relationship. I was traumatized at a very young age and have struggled to exist with society ever since. You are NOT alone. You matter.

All I’m gonna say. You’re loved by complete strangers you’ve never met and because of this video you made….. you speak to millions of us. You matter bro

This is the curse of Aspergers- wanting much of what other people have but not being able to get it.

“What’s the point of travel when you have nobody to share it with” I feel this so much. My parents tell me to travel but I have no friends and no significant other. There’s no point.

"I run this endless self-improvement treadmill, wondering at what point will I be worthy of love" That is deep right there.

Social media is full of fake success and happiness. To hear something like this video, so articulate, feels closer to the truth for many people out there. Aaron, we are pulling for you.

I am 60 years old, an Army combat vet with multiple tours (and issues), divorced for over 22 years, no kids, friends all dead, family all dead, all alone in a town where people go out of their way to insult and put you down.... yes, I know how you feel. I live it every day.

I’m a 30 year old male who’s never been in a relationship. I feel your pain brother.

Man, the balls it takes to open up on video like this, and be so openly vulnerable like this, when you're depressed and in pain. You're stronger than you know, just for doing this. I've already watched a bunch of your other videos that you've posted after this one. This open vulnerability is a huge display of strength, whether you know it or not, and it will help others. Keep it up man, you will find your way. Thank you for sharing this. 💪❤️

Dude you have no idea how not alone you are. Its more common than you think just people don't have the balls like you to own it and if they do, they're made fun of for it. You got some balls dude, mad respect to you. Stay in the fight, its ok to be who you are.

First off brother, you look great for 44. Second, you have a mellow way of explaining your situation that makes this subject matter relatable for a lot of people. You come across as genuine and with a unique form of wisdom. You're honest and I appreciate how open your are about your struggles. With that being said: I know my advice wouldn't work for you because our mindsets are different. I consider myself a "social loner." I have a small group of friends currently that I've had good times with but I also do a lot of things on my own. From what I've deduced from your video, is that you've had a variety of social experiences already, but you don't have any of that stimuli currently and it makes you feel inadequate. Let me tell you, broski, is that even married and coupled people feel inadequate. Especially those in abusive relationships. But they stay, because they can't stand the thought of being alone. They may think they are getting their physical and emotional needs met, but I guarantee you that half of them aren't. Why do you think the divorce rate has escslted over the last 40 years? You see these couples from the past, through America's so-called golden age, who were together to death. But at what cost to the individual? They went to the grave, and how many of them are already forgotten, with a partner or no partner. Kids or no kids. I will give you a bit of advice all of the same. DO NOT sacrifice your individuality. Do not sell yourself short. Don't be deterred by labels others may want to hoist onto you. You bring something to the world in your own special way. I myself was diagnosed with autism when I was a toddler. It was thanks to the love of my parents that pulled me out of my thick shell I was in. This world is not kind to those with any neurodivergency. It's utterly cruel. But there is joy to be found. Even though I was diagnosed with autism at such a young age, I don't see myself as such. I certainly didn't in my 20's. Perhaps in my late 30's is when I started acknowledging that past diagnosis. I always behaved differently than anyone else. I had such a kooky and funky outlook on life and that can either rub people the wrong way or make them question what your intentions are or who you are as a person in the grand scheme of things. But, I've brought forth joy onto others throughout my life. I'm happy I was able to do as much. They say autism is for life, but I don't care. Because I don't let something like that define me. I also don't broadcast myself as autistic to the wider world, either. People can take me at face value or not. You say you make music? Did I hear that right? Music is one of God's greatest gifts bestowed onto us. You put forth positive energy to the world with your creations. Find joy every time you compose something. Remember: YOU did that. Nobody else but you. Gratitude goes a long way, sir. You have to be grateful for things you normally overlook. You're not in a coma in the hospital. You have two strong legs to walk on. You can go to the bathroom on your own without assistance. You have all of the tools to be self-sufficient. Make the most out of things like this and you'll realize how lucky you are in regards to that. Take the time to work on some self-care. Take a nice and warm soak with some epsom salts and relieve your tired body and mind. Find refuge in the gift of music. I'd be happy to share some recommendations for songs for you if you're open to it. Open your lungs and mind with a woodland hike. Nature is yet another of God's greatest gifts to us. Let it heal your soul. I am 40. So you're older than me. But I want you to know after watching this video, I look up to you. You have gained another younger brother. I'm very thankful you've put something like this video out in the world. You've made a lot of people relate to you when they thought they were the only ones in the world. I hope you find strength in what I've said. If you want that woman in your life, so be it. I hope you find her. I wish you the best of luck in your pursuits in regards to that. But, if it doesn't happen, do not give into despair. Don't compare yourself to what others have. I send you the best of wishes, good health and happiness as you journey through this life. The same goes for anybody who comes across this message of mine. Let's make our lives matter, in whatever way we can before our time on this earth is up.

I don’t have ASD, im married and have kids, but I still feel so alone every day. Im listening to you now while lying in my bed with tears in my eyes. I wish life wasn’t so hard… thanks because your video helps me feel less alone

There is a reason this video has 136,000 views. There are many lonely people and many people in toxic relationships. You are doing a great service by opening up and expressing your innermost feelings and fears. There are many people who can relate. You deserve love and happiness. I hope you meet a good woman who appreciates you.

For a loner, I know it takes crazy effort to put yourself out there and be transparent so I do applaud you for making that large leap of faith.

As a nearly 28 year old guy, I've been alone for the last 11 years since my dad died. There just isn't any reason for me to go outside, except for working. I have no friends or relationships and most of my day is me staying at home and working on different projects. There are millions like yourself out there and you will find all of them on the internet. That's the way I connected to some over the years. It's not the same as a real life friend, s.o or wife, but it can numb the loneliness for a couple of hours a day. Hang in there, you are not alone.

I'm a 36 year old male bachelor and a couple of years ago I was in your position. Getting drunk every day, feeling lonely, sad, empty and given up on love, life, and having a family. I had no purpose and I'm done with life. Until one night on January last year (2023) I then come across a Korean TV show called "I Live Alone" where famous and very good looking male/female celebrities are showing their day to day normal lives as bachelors, and they were enjoying it and finding happiness in living on their own. I was kinda a Kpop fan, and in a way the show somehow healed me and realized that hey it's not that bad at all. If these rich and beautiful/handsome celebrities are happy with being single/bachelor and living a simple life, then why can't I just be inspired by them and just focus on loving and bettering myself. I marathon-watched the series the whole year and truly it made me changed my outlook and I'm in a much better place now tbh. Being alone means you have freedom. And it's something I learned that is a luxury as a single man, so I'm trying to make the best of it each day. Visit places alone. Travel the road alone. Eat a whole box of pizza. Try great restaurants. Buy stuff for yourself like gadgets, shoes, clothes. Get a motorcycle. Get a dog. A lof of exciting things are out there if you just kill the thought that you need someone to be happy. I love my parents and my siblings, and I've accepted the bachelor life. I honestly and truly feel that I'm better off alone than having a commitment with someone, and I'm absolutely ok with that. I love it. All the best to you and to everyone who reads this.

I'm not autistic, but I was the shy, introverted, low self-confidence guy who was never was good at socializing. I've been where you're at, but I got married for the first time at 46. So, there's always hope.

I'm 51, a virgin, and I couldn't be happier. I guess I'm blessed because of my ASD I'm so socially awkward I'm perfectly content being alone. My heart aches for you, and one time I felt a lot like you, but when I finally got my ASD diagnosis I decided to embrace that I'm always going to be this way. I love animals and they are the only companionship I need.

I am married with two kids, one with low-functioning autism. Sometimes, it gets so stressful that I think "Being alone must be great". I am someone that really enjoys my alone time. However, I think after a couple weeks, I would be even more stressed. This video helps me see how lucky I am. Great video. Also, you most certainly are good enough and I think you will find the right person. You seem like a good dude.

I feel so sorry for this man. I have autism too, and I know being lonely alot can worsen your mental health. Just stay strong.

Most pleasant video I've watched recently. Not Flashy, not click bait, just genuine heartfelt dude sharing with all of us!

Aaron stay strong. I’m 44 as well. 20 year ARMY veteran. I was alone for the first 18 years. During that time I had to learn how to deal with loneliness. Some things that helped me: Martial arts(BJJ), working out , hiking, archery, David goggins books, a dog is a big moral booster. Find your own meaning and purpose and learn to master your mind. Best wishes to you. Know your not alone in this journey.

I'm almost 50 and have never been married, haven't had many girlfriends, and never had a relationship last for even three years. I'm a good looking, healthy man, and have a great career. I've spent my entire adult life trying to figure out why I can't seem to create or keep relationships. I identify with darn near everything you said. And it doesn't get easier as we get older. Just a bleak horizon of fewer options, and more meals, more holidays, more of everything ....alone. And like you also said, there's nobody else to support you in daily challenges. Besides the loneliness, it's embarassing as hell to be 'that guy' who never go married. On the very rare occassion when I do find a date, they ALWAYS ask "do you have kids ...ever been married"? And when you tell them "no, neither", you can see the shock in their face ...and you know you won't get another date with them. It's just too weird for 'normal' women to understand.

I'm only 25 but I've felt the same way as you since I graduated from high school. I have no words of encouragement that you haven't already heard a million times, I just hope we find what we're looking for.

I'm 37 and right there with you in many ways. Decent looking, i work out and take care of myself but... High functioning autistic, I've got severe social anxiety. For me it's work, gym, cold lonely house. Wish I had some comforting words but I'm living what you're describing and... well, you get it.

This video hit me hard. You basically recounted my biography and my day-to-day life. Absolutely pointless wage slaving with nothing to look forward to. Grinding loneliness.

I’m 27 and I would totally hang out with you man and listen to you, bro. :( You are more than good enough you’re a pretty awesome guy just by seeing this video your soul is evident.

You’re not alone. I wish lonely people knew how to find other lonely people. There are SO MANY PEOPLE feeling exactly like this that need each other.

48, never married, no kids, never really had a serious relationship. My problem is social anxiety. Your not alone brother. I don't feel bad about it though, I've already accepted it and if someday I meet someone that I can feel comfortable around and fall in love with, fine, but if not, that's fine too! We all don't have to follow the status quo of getting married and having kids to be happy.

42 yo f here. never been in a relationship. took me a long time to get over it. realized that childhood traumas directly impact how I experience intimacy. found happiness (as happy as it goes) in my friends and career. Thank you for sharing your story and laying yourself bare. We need more guys and gals like you. may I add that you have gorgeous eyes?

You should know that many of us who are married are actually still just alone. People try to portray marriage in the most positive light but sometimes, behind the scenes, there's not much cuddling or real closeness going on.

Sounds like depression and anxiety are taking a major toll on you. I can relate.

ASD has made me a ghost, haunting various locations and revisiting places pointlessly. The point you make about younger family members having families while you are left behind resonated strongly with me. I feel pathetic and I'm too ashamed to see my extended family very often.

You’re the big brother making this video, helping countless others who have ASD! Thank you

35 and I feel absolutely the same . I've been on so many weddings but nothing . Little confidence you have disappear in time . Most of my friends are with kids after longterm relationships and I am by myself . Its definitely painful and honestly fault is mine . I was not brave enough to do the first steps . Feel you , mate . Stay strong !

125,000 views in 2 months, you resonated with a lot of people man. That’s something to feel good about, you put yourself out there and a lot of people found it and wanted to engage.

I'm 46, and you described my life to a tee. I truly feel your pain, and appreciate this video.. Stay strong brothers.

I'm 21 and I'm afraid I will end up in your shoes. I never developed any relationship skills in school and I only ever had a small friend group. And a lot of those friends I had are always busy and never have time to hang out. I've never been kissed or had a girl hold my hand outside of dance class. Looking at my future, I don't see how this is gonna get any better, especially the older I get with zero experience, the more undesirable I become.

Awestruck. This is exactly where I am mentally, emotionally, socially. 44yo F but I have experienced the same struggles and thus remain single. I often think I must be the only one in this place. Being over 40, never married or involved, no children, no prospects, gets me a lot of judgment as if I have failed as a woman. I'm very likely to be in the same boat for the rest of my life. Sometimes I am fine with that. Other times I am distraught by it. I continue to make music, create art, enjoy nature, pursue hobbies and goals, and find joy in sharing those things with me, myself, and I. If I'm meant to share with another human, I'll let it happen organically; I'm not going to frantically search. The options are sparse, aren't they? As if 40 is the end of human potential or value as a mate? Hardly. It's really just the beginning in many ways.

I truly think the dating market is a joke and you are a gem ! So kind and authentic! I

Hey Aaron, my name is Tyler. I just came across this video on my recommended feed. Holy crap, this hit home for me. I am 37, single, no kids, and haven't been in a relationship with any women in over 10 years. I struggle with a lot of mental health issues mainly with substance abuse. Long story shot, I got addicted to heroin, oxy, and cocaine in 2011. I have had a couple relapses, but as of right now I have over 7 months clean off of heroin and cocaine/crack. I know God has a bigger purpose for me in life, and I know He does for you too. Hang in there man! I commend you for being so raw and real.

I can relate to what you’re going through. About to turn 37, never had a relationship, no friends. Work, go home, repeat. All I can tell you is we’re in this rough ride together.

This was one of the deeper and sadder things I've witnessed on UKposts, and that's a really beautiful thing that I'm inspired by you for sharing. I have no doubt it doesn't feel particularly virtuous in any way but the fact you can make people feel something deeply real to the nature of existence (no person will ever truly know what it's like to be another) is beautiful and you should be very proud of that you were brave enough to make it through this video and put it out there. It makes a lot of us feel less alone, too. I think you hold yourself to a lot of expectations society instills, and maybe via that, or maybe inherently to you, developing a serious relationship sounds really important to you. This is probably a 'no shit, sherlock' kind of thing to say. It makes sense, but I would just be wary of that first part, that society has formed what is normal to you in your brain and you seek that normal life. I don't know much about ASD, but my general guideline in life is to question normalcy - just because it's commonplace doesn't mean it's the correct thing or even what you truly like deep down. I watched my parents divorce dissolve and no doubt I'll pursue love and connection, but very likely with the caveat of avoiding married life. I'd also recommend (you've probably tried this) but dating other people with autism, I imagine there's an app or site for it (again, no idea, you might have mentioned it in this video and it just flew by me) - but it seems to me everyone you have crossed paths with doesn't fully get your existence and i think it would be a huge, huge relief finding someone who does, whether they have autism or they grew up with someone who had it, etc. I feel like that would be the biggest weight off your shoulders. Even if it didn't amount in a relationship, but just knowing you're not alone in the circumstances you're in. I have my own mental situation I'm navigating and I used to beat myself up a lot about it and feel extremely bleak about it, but it was realising just how truly not-alone I am that took the most weight off my mind. I'd definitely recommend pursuing any and every community and connection that knows in some way what a life with ASD looks like. I really think it'll help to at best meet and/or communicate with, or at worst observe, as many others as possible who know to some more informed degree the circumstances you're living with. That aside, a good fundamental one I recommend a lot is acclaimed neuroscientist dudeman Sam Harris' guided meditation on UKposts. Just search 'sam harris meditation'. I owe a significant amount of my peace of mind in life to his very mechanical explanation of the brain and our experience of life, moment to moment. I wish you all the best, man. You seem like a lovely person. There is 100% a happy future out there for you, I think it just exists through finding the most understanding surroundings you can, as above. ✨

Not even blowing smoke dude, you’re a catch. First impression before I even knew what the video was about, I thought, this is a good looking guy, good style, great voice, articulate, looks like he has a nice place. Sounds like you take care of yourself and have hobbies and interests. Not divorced, no kids, no baggage. You’re a catch my man. I am certain there are good women out there that would be l happy to find a guy like you. I know it can be difficult to find them, especially as you get older. I just wanted to give you an outsider perspective on the fact that you come across as a catch. I hope maybe that little confidence boost leads to you finding the one.

This dude is a legend for sharing this

Thanks for being this vulnerable. I feel so alone too. You sharing your story makes me feel less alone.

It for sure takes an insane amount of courage and strength to do what this guy has done here. You’re a really strong person man you can’t give up on believing in yourself brother.

I’m going to be 41 and single. I’m not autistic but I can understand and relate to a lot of what you’re saying. It’s definitely harder to meet people friends, romantic prospects etc when you’re older. Just wanted to send positive energy … Platitudes don’t really do anything but you seem like a genuinely good guy and I hope you find an amazing woman for you.

By the time I was In my 50's, I met half a dozen guys who were divorced, paid child support, lost homes, horror stories of misery, etc. There's some worst things out there, than being single. That goes for the older single women too. Some suffer in long marriages.

Your voice is so calming. Thank you for sharing this with us.

one of the most relatable UKposts videos I've watched in a long while, thankyou Aaron

I haven't been diagnosed with autism, however I'm 50 and in the same social/romantic boat you're in. I feel this SO hard. No clue what's wrong with me. I'm decent looking, kind, enjoy good laughs, and perpetually alone. Always alone. Many similarities to you: small empty apartment, feeling like just existing, failed dating app experiences, never married, no kids, friends all with families and homes. Nothing improves. No companionship. No hope of a real life. My existence is inconsequential. It's lonely and it sucks harder than I'd ever imagined

I completely relate to this even though I'm not living with ASD. Just a 44 yr old woman. Thank you for sharing, I actually didn't think there were others like me.

I'm grateful that I discovered your channel, Aaron. Thank you for being so brave to share your story and life with those who identify with you. I am pushing 40, and I have undiagnosed ASD, though I am certain that I am on the spectrum, because I have struggled with so many things throughout my life. I only have one friend, who I have known since second grade, and I can't help but think he still chooses to be my friend because he feels sorry for me that I am not "normal." He has managed to build a career, life and family of his own. I have not been able to do any of those things, so we grow farther apart as our lives continue to misalign with age. Sometimes, I do feel alone, but that is often the life of those on the spectrum. We are simply not understood nor completely accepted by most people. I don't feel alone knowing that there are genuine, good-natured people like you that I can relate to. All my best to you. Your friend, Daniel

Greetings from Australia. I'm also 44 with ASD - I was diagnosed as an adult. I also used to suffer from depression & anxiety. Thank you for posting this video - at least I know I'm not the only one. I've watched all your other videos on this channel & can relate. There are plenty of single women out there who would be glad to be with someone like you - maybe the problem is distance. You're not past your prime - you're just getting started. And thank you for your honesty - never thought I'd come across a video like this. All the best.

You are NOT ALONE. I am right there too. 41 and nothing to show for my life. Some of the most brilliant minds and amazing people that ever lived never paired up and had children. I wish I could help you. Don’t give up. Never give up.

I'm 31 and only been in 1 relationship. I married the only woman who accepted me for who I naturally was and she died of cancer. No one else has ever given me a chance and I just cope with the "better to have loved" mindset. It sucks because all my life I've always had to be 10x more confident, financially stable, funnier, etc. just to be visible (not as a partner just as a human). I was the fat blk ugly guy with a severe stuttering problem growing up and seeing dudes who would abuse, cheat, disrespect their women be able to get in and out of relationships just because they looked good or had "swag", has made me bitter about ever trying again. I'm not what they want, it's that simple

I know this was hard to do. It was hard to watch. I echo the sentiment expressed already. You are worthy, and you are loved by people who have never met you. By putting this video out there for people to find, discuss, and connect over, your impact on the world has been a positive one. Thank you on behalf of humanity.

This is the most relatable video I’ve ever seen. Every single point reflects my own experience.

I needed this right now. Thank you. Your not alone buddy keep going.

I am a “normal” 44 year old woman and I’m still single. Never married, no kids. Growing up I was told to focus on my school and a relationship will happen naturally. It never happened. Going through college, I was told to focus on my degree and a relationship will come when I least expect it. It never happened. I started working and I was told to focus on my work and “the one” will come along. It never happened. I am now 44 years old and I feel the same way you do. I am a school teacher. I love kids. I always assumed I would be a mom someday. I think I would have been a good mom. It truly makes me sad when I see everyone else around me happily married and with children. I wish I knew what that felt like. I wish I didn’t have to do everything by myself. I feel like life would be easier if I had a partner. 😢

I just turned 45, and I’ve been divorced for 15 years. I’ve been socially awkward my whole life, and I feel like I just don’t relate to a majority of people. Myself and millions of others are going through your same struggles, you are not alone.

You´re a superhero in my eyes. This video is the push i needed today. Keep going

I would like to say how much you inspired me with this video. Just by speaking about this and putting it out there is braver and more courageous than anything I have ever done. Thanks man.

You are strong as hell for explaining this without showing much pain. Respect man.

As a 25 year old female on the spectrum, I've been having similar thoughts to yourself. Many women and men feel this way. You are not alone. You have many things in your favor. This video I think is a big step for you. I'll be praying for you, and all our future success in this department.

I think you having the courage to come out and be open and honest about this will inadvertently change your life for the better. From what I gather, you're a talented, driven dude with more going on for you than you think. You're life is just beginning. Stay strong

Much respect and empathy to all of you for being open. I can relate for sure!

Wow you don’t look a day over 30, keep having faith man. You got this Remember, its never too late for anything as long as you are breathing.

I'm 28 and I related to this so deeply. Thank you for making me feel a little less alone in this world.

You are one of the youngest looking 44 year olds I've ever seen in my entire life! You absolutely have that going for you. Don't give up, you have plenty to offer someone.

💗Happy Valentine's Day, Aaron. Looks like your channel is going great! You're never completely alone, brother. Widow, 41 here, also a loner. I won't give up on love, it's pure energy 💟

I'm not on the spectrum, but I have a physical disability that has held me back. I also have anxiety as I was abused and grew up in a very strict-religious household. I'm 35 years old now, and never had a girlfriend. Most of my friends have had long term relationships and children, but I've never even kissed a girl before. Never cuddled, had a warm embrace, talk until sunrise, or any of that mushy stuff you always hear about. Im deeply grateful I've gotten a handle on my depression, and in a much better mental headspace these days, but completely stunted when it comes to romance. At this age, lack of experience is seen as a real turnoff, which I understand from the women's perspective, but still sucks. Im not balling, but I have my own apartment (which I'm grateful I can afford in this era), debt free, can my bills and sometimes put money in savings, I eat healthy (90% of the time), and exercise sometimes (I need to do more consistently, but not doing too bad.). I've met so many wonderful women through the years, but they're either never single or never interested. Constantly hearing the "you're a good guy speech" got old years ago. Idk why this video popped into my feed; I wasn't seeking out anything related to this subject, but I'm glad it did. We may be lonely, but we're not alone.

36 and facing the same shit but of trauma and ptsd ; Thanks for telling your story ! comforting that I'm not alone in this

Hey man. Thanks for posting this video. I'm only 32 and I struggle with loneliness as well. I've also never been in a serious relationship with a woman. I hope that changes soon and I am trying my best to change the situation, but it does get tough. Much love and care sent you're way. You are not alone!

You have a beautiful soul, sir (and you’re very handsome). I’m a 40yo veteran in NC with depression and you are not alone in the life you live. Just know that you are making the world a better place with your story. It takes a strong person to hurt yet still allow oneself to be vulnerable. Keep pushing forward and know that your life doesn’t have to align with society’s expected timeline. Big hugs ❤️ You are intelligent, strong, and all of us here in the comments are rooting for you. Much love ❤️

Man I don’t know how this guy doesn’t absolutely smash the dating market.

Turning 30 very soon. I feel ya. As painful, as it is to hear you are not alone in this.

I can feel your emotions throughout this video. Although we have different illnesses; I feel the exact same loneliness and hopelessness as you. I too, just long for a life partner.

I’m really surprised that a good looking dude like this is in the predicament he’s in. Brutal world

You are not alone in a pack of lonely men. This hit me hard because you basically described me to a T. It is frustrating to keep living seeing how much life has past with nothing to really show for it. I feel for you, brother. Don't give up. Keep going.

I totally felt everything you said. And it does get harder to find connections. Thank you for your openness and know you're not alone in how you feel... cheers

This guy is explaining exactly what I'm going through as a 28 year old male, and im not half as attractive as he is, so what hope do I have? I cant live like this and just take the pain thinkinking it'll get better when im older. It'll only get worse...I've tried so very hard to improve myself, physically its worked, but it never boosted my confidence and it wont ever be enough because I cant cure my autism. If I'm broken on such a fundamental level then why shouldnt I just end it? I never stood a chance.

I'm 55 and completely alone. Everywhere I go, I look at EVERYONE'S ring finger and wonder how each person met their husband or wife. I feel like a shell of a man. I've also tried dating apps. I gave my all. I finally gave up. The dating sites only added pain to my fighting clinical depression. I feel your pain so deeply. Watching your video has made me cry uncontrollably. God bless you!!!!

I once had a coworker that dated, got engaged, married, divorced, dated and got girlfriend ALL while I got one single date that led nowhere.

Thank you for sharing yourself with us, I think it's extremely valuable to hear about the experience you've had. I relate heavily to your struggles and it makes me feel grateful for the family connections I still have. I also have 2 younger brothers (I'm also the oldest brother) who are in serious relationships while I remain alone. I think I have issues with making decisions, I lock up. It's like I'd rather keep everything the same than risk it and try new things, even though I'm burning to get more experience with romantic relationships... I just feel stuck.

i'm 33, completely reclusive, and completely isolated, haven't been on a date since before covid, and haven't been in a real relationship since college age. i reinstalled tinder this week, and it's just a monument to how alone i always have been. everyone my age has kids or partners or are just getting out of long term relationships. how can i hang with people who are so much more "advanced" than i am in terms of emotional and relational experience? i don't like thinking that the people i have most in common with on that app are the younger women who have less experience. that feels fucking predatory even though it isn't. i know this kind of isolation is going to continue. isolation is going to be my future. thanks for sharing. i guess if feels good to know i'm not alone in my alone-ness.

Jeezuz, you described myself at the beginning. I’ve been living on cope for the past several decades. In my 20s I was still hopeful because I always thought that there were still possibilities. When I struck out, I worked on what I thought was wrong with me which was weight, fitness, finances, hairstyle and clothing. In my 30s, I felt a little disappointed because I thought I would’ve met someone by then. Women still said no or they would ghost me. So I kept working on myself. I had a decent job and career. I had my own place, car and could afford to go on trips. In my 40s I noticed a change. Women would look away when I was near them. I would try to start a conversation but would be ignored. Sometimes I would be patronized. Or insulted. One woman just cut me off when I asked how her day was. I later realized that I was having trouble because I was ugly and short. Getting older only made things worse. The belief that women go for older men only works if you’re James Bond. It doesn’t work for ugly short men. You at least are good looking. No homo. And you’re fit. Some of my married friends have let themselves go and look like blobs of skin, but their wives still stick with them. Maybe there’s something to finding love early and growing old with them that makes their love stronger, I don’t know. All I can say is that be thankful you still have relatives you can celebrate the holidays and birthdays with. I celebrated my birthday by going out to Olive Garden after work. In my head, I sang happy birthday to myself as I sat in a booth by myself. I tried to look happy or at least casually comfortable so as to not creep people out. But it gets harder. I can’t tell you what I did for the past several Christmases because they were all spent by myself and the memories have faded or melded together because there was nothing significant that stood out. The funniest moments in my life are when people try to give me advice on obvious routes I could take. They act like they’re the first ones who came up with working out, making money and taking trips to live a better life. Not once do they consider that I’ve already done all those things. I’ve volunteered at homeless shelters and hospitals to get my mind off of myself but that can only work for so long. It got to a point where I was depressing the homeless even if I was trying to be optimistic about life. Volunteering at the hospital had its positive moments, but it gets negated when the nurses treat you like a leper and then talk behind your back. Also, since I would volunteer for several hours sometimes, I would have lunch at the cafeteria on occasion. The doctors and nurses who would put on a smile when we were up on the ward would act like they didn’t know me in the cafeteria. It felt like high school all over again which is silly since I was in my 40s. The other thing I would see was all the families and couples that got together to have lunch. It reminded me that even if someone is feeling ill, they at least have someone to visit them and make their life a little less dreary. Volunteering only got more depressing for me so I eventually quit.

I have suffered loneliness as an adult. I am a 38 yr old female that got moved around alot as a kid and struggles to make friends. Can I just say for anyone that is lonely I highly recommend a pet. I got a rough collie who is now 2 and she has honestly been so good for my mental health. I go on holidays with my dog and lots of hikes. There are even dog friendly cafes now, and she has helped me meet and start conversations with other dog owners etc. I now take care of her and she gives purpose and company. Alot better than some human friends I've had over the years. I would also recommend pursuing your passions, you will start to meet others on the same page with same interests as you. This will give natural topics to talk about.

Keep up the good work with your channel, my man. Having the courage to talk about these things and vent is a damn good thing 💪💪💪💪💪 You are a rare example of someone using the internet for a good reason

Aaron ❤ My heart aches for you as my heart and life have been on your twin journey I want to thank you REALLY REALLY THANKYOU for this video. You have articulated EXACTLY what I can't or couldn't EXACTLY

This video really touched me even though my experience is different, I am a girl, I am 19 years old and I don't live in the west but this just confirmed to me how soul crushing loneliness can be, I wish you all the best Aaron, I really do because you deserve it

I'm a 51 year old "normie" surrounded by "autistic" family. So, I suppose I can empathize to a small degree of what you go through only from what I can perceive from their experiences. I will say this though in complete confidence, we have all been lied to. This idea that there is something wrong with us if we never experience relationships, whether they be romantic or platonic. I have come to the realization that it is our trauma we suffer as children by the hands of those who raise us that fools us into thinking that we should be a particular way, and EVERYONE has been traumatized. I have my own challenges, that quite frankly are very demanding and sometimes downright difficult, but I have learned to let life happen and be present as much as a I can. Real happiness or peace if you will, comes in letting go of all opinions (including the ones in our own heads). When we stop trying to get an identity from every little thing that comes in contact with us is where real freedom exist. I don't have a life, I AM life and it was made to live. Just my two cents. I wish you and everyone else well.

Thank you for the candidness and honesty.

Video is still valuable. Thank you aaron for sharing.

You'll wish you were lonely if married to the wrong person. That's a living hell.

I'm 62 without ever having a girlfriend or relationship, I've learned to accept it and try to be happy by myself

Aaron, firstly - thank you for sharing this deeply moving self portrait, apologies I’m only now seeing it. You have a very natural presence in the front of the camera, I never would of thought this was your first video. It’s truly inspiring and I’m just totally impressed! I won’t try offering advice or repeating the same old jargon but you’ve given voice to something, I imagine many men are thinking and feeling and for that I’m grateful. While our experiences are different, to your overall message I can relate - the deep and incredible need for connection. Your diversity of experience is a welcome and precious learning tool and I look forward to learning more.

I felt that, when you said 'there's no one there when you get home'. I've been feeling that for a very long time, and when I've told my friends about it, it gets dismissed. I hope you get better my dude, take it a day at a time

Your story really touched me. Im going through the exact same thing. Im 40, will be turning 41 next month. I've spent 20 years of my life looking for someone to settle down with. I've had horrible luck in the dating scene. I've gotten to the point where Im done looking. Im burned out. Finding someone to settle down with is no longer a priority. For now on my focus is work and living my best life. I'm doing the things I really enjoy and that has helped my mental health. I go to concerts, festivals, and conventions alone. I make an adventure out of it. It allows me to break out of my bubble, socialize with people and create memories. But I havent given up entirely on dating, Im still open to it. If a nice lady walks into my life and we hit it off, Im willing to give dating a try. Keep your head up. Live your best life.