In the world we live in, being solitary is often viewed with a sense of pity or concern – but that shouldn’t be the case.
Embracing solitude and finding happiness alone can be a liberating experience. People who thrive in their own company are not necessarily loners or outcasts, they just have a different way of indulging in life’s pleasures.
Many people without close friends have unique habits that bring them immense joy – without the need for constant social interaction. And I’ve uncovered 8 common things they do differently.
In this article, I’m going to share with you “The art of being happy alone: 8 things people without close friends do instead”. Trust me, these are lessons you might want to take notes on. Who knows? You might even find your own sweet spot in solitude after all.
1) Embrace solitude
Most people view solitude as something negative, an echo of loneliness. But people who enjoy being alone look at it differently.
For them, solitude isn’t a negative state to be remedied, but an opportunity to be cherished. By choosing to be alone, they are taking control of their own happiness and well-being.
These individuals use the time to do activities they truly enjoy, that they may not otherwise have time for. It could be anything from reading to hiking to just sunbathing in the backyard, whatever makes them tick.
What’s more, they are far from being anti-social. Their positive self-relationship and contentment in solitude often contribute to healthier relationships with others. They see social interaction not as a necessity but as an appealing extra, contributing to an overall balanced experience of life.
This conscious embracing of solitude is not about building walls or shutting people out. It’s about unlocking a part of happiness and peace that comes from being comfortable with oneself.
Initial step in the art of being happy alone? Embrace your solitude, don’t run from it.
2) Cultivating inner peace
Inner peace – sounds like a buzzword, doesn’t it? But it’s much more than that. For people who find happiness alone, it’s their key to contentment.
I remember when I first actively started seeking solitude. I had just moved to a new city for work and there were no familiar faces around. Instead of seeing this as a negative, I chose to see it as an opportunity to be alone- truly alone.
I started using this time to work on my inner peace. I began with meditation. At first, it was hard to silence the noise in my head. I was bombarded with thoughts about my work, my family back home, the new city… But as days turned into weeks, I found myself looking forward to these sessions each day.
They became my refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. I felt calmer, more focused, more in tune with myself.
Now, whether I’m in the middle of a crowded street or home alone, I find happiness within me. It’s a feeling independent of the external factors around me.
The mantra that worked for me? Don’t just be alone, but learn to tap into your inner peace. Be comfortable in your own skin. You’ll be amazed at the kind of happiness it brings.
3) Prioritizing self-improvement
Being content alone provides an excellent platform for self-improvement and personal growth. Those who bask in their solitude often use this time wisely to better themselves. They read, learn new skills, challenge their beliefs, and expand their horizons.
Consider this: The average CEO reads 60 books a year. That’s five books a month! They attribute their success and leadership skills to this continuous journey of learning and self-improvement.
It’s not just about picking up facts or knowledge. It’s about understanding perspectives, questioning established norms, developing emotional intelligence, and growing as individuals.
Self-improvement builds self-confidence and creates a positive cycle of personal growth and happiness. So while in solitude, don’t just exist – explore, grow, and improve!
4) Creating mindful routines
Some days are busier than others, and during peak times, it’s easy to lose yourself in the chaos. That’s where routines come into play. Individuals who thrive in solitude often create mindful routines to keep themselves centered.
Their routines are a balanced blend of productivity, relaxation, and reflection. Structuring their day with mindful activities not only gives them a sense of purpose but also keeps them grounded.
Morning meditation, an hour of reading, preparing a homemade meal, a nightly walk, or even watering their plants – activities vary, but the goal is the same: maintaining a connection with oneself amidst the whirlwind of life’s commitments.
Remember, a well-rounded routine goes a long way in keeping your solitude constructive and enjoyable.
5) Practicing gratitude
One of the most heartfelt aspects of people who find happiness alone is their practice of gratitude. It’s not always about grand gestures or big wins. They find joy in the little things – a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, the sunrise, the sound of birdsong, or the feel of a favorite book in their hands.
In solitude, they take the time to genuinely appreciate and give thanks for these moments. This sense of gratitude fills them with positivity and creates a shift in their mindset. Instead of longing for what they don’t have, they find happiness in what they already do.
Gratitude is an elixir for contentment. When you recognize and appreciate the good in your life, loneliness ceases to exist, replaced by a cosy sense of self-satisfaction.
So whether you’re in the company of others or alone, a heartfelt thank you to life’s simple pleasures can make a world of difference.
6) Embracing change
Life is a constant rollercoaster, full of ups and downs, twists and turns. It’s unpredictable and change is inevitable. People who enjoy their own company often learn to embrace these changes, rather than resist them.
I recall a time when my life seemed like it was spinning out of control. Job loss, a broken relationship, a sudden move – everything hit at once. It was overwhelming. But it was then, during my lowest point of despair, that I realized I had a choice. I could either let the turmoil consume me, or I could embrace the change and move forward.
It took courage, but I chose to move forward. Rather than wallow in self-pity, I used the alone time to introspect, to reflect, and plan my next steps. I slowly rebuilt my life, piece by piece. Today, looking back, I’m grateful for those moments of solitude. They transformed me and made me who I am today.
Change is never easy, but the way you choose to react can make all the difference. Embrace change as a thrilling chapter in your life’s book, rather than a daunting hurdle, and watch your solo journey blossom.
7) Paying attention to personal health
Another aspect that people who find happiness alone often focus on is their personal health. With the hustle and bustle of social commitments out of the way, they take time to work on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They realize that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, decent sleep, and time for relaxation make it to the top of their priority list. They understand that maintaining a healthy body is key to a happy mind.
Approaching well-being holistically, they also invest time in mental health. Meditation, yoga, journaling, or even a simple walk in the park can be their go-to activities to maintain emotional balance.
Adopt the mindset that your health is your wealth, and see how it transforms your solitude into a haven of happiness.
8) Loving oneself
The most pivotal aspect of finding happiness alone lies in the ability to love oneself. For those who embrace solitude, self-love is the cornerstone of their contentment. They accept their flaws, celebrate their strengths, and reward themselves for their victories, however small.
They don’t seek validation or approval from others as they carry a deep-seated love for themselves. This self-love empowers them to explore, create, learn, and grow in their individual space, both physically and emotionally.
In the journey of solitude, don’t forget to fall in love with the person who matters the most – yourself. When you love yourself, being alone no longer feels lonely, it feels empowering.
