The psychology of being happy alone.
All people require some amount of alone time.
It’s why therapists say even thehealthiest couples need alone timeaway from each other.
According to clinical psychologistCarla Marie Manly, Ph.D., some people may be more predisposed to enjoying solitude.
That said, being able to enjoy being alone is a skill that all people benefit from.
The opposite side of the coinand the goal, according to Mancaoisemotionalindependence.
Being alone without friends.
Humans are social creatures.
“It increases the risk of diseases1like infections, heart disease, high blood pressure, and dementia.”
Being alone without a partner.
There are also many benefits to being single that are less accessible within the context of a relationship.
“You learn to forge your own way, and that elevates inner confidence and resilience.”
Being alone at home.
11 steps to be happy alone:
Don’t force it.
First and foremost, go easy on yourself here.
Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time, and that feelinglike all feelingsis completely valid.
Keep yourself occupied.
When we’re sitting around doing nothing, we tend to feel loneliness more acutely.
“Make advance plans to fill the time in enjoyable ways,” she says.
“It’s often wonderful to create a list filled with a blend of to-do tasks and self-care time.
This approach makes solo days feel like a nourishing balance of ‘must-do’s’ and ‘want-do-to-do’s.'”
Fill your time with activities you legitimately enjoy.
Start a project.
(No idea what kind of project would speak to you?
Here’s ourfull guide on how to find your passion.)
Take a social media break.
Reach out to friends.
“Stay connected with people who bring you joy and support you.”
Or, perhaps it’s time for you to look intomaking new friends.
Engage with your community.
An oft-overlooked way to connect with others is through community.
Establish routines.
Get outside.
Remember that loneliness is a feeling that’s often anextension of the emotion of sadness.
), with mood being one of them.
“Get outside for a bit of sunshine and exercise,” she says.
Mind your health.
How we treat our bodies affects how we feel emotionally, and vice versa.
Work on your relationship to yourself.
Perhaps most importantly, learning how to be happy alone requires you to actually, legitimatelylove yourself.
If this isn’t ringing true for you, start there.
Maybe it’s about learninghow to build confidence in yourself.
Maybe it’s aboutreleasing people-pleasing behavior.
Maybe it’s aboutreleasing perfectionist tendencies that lead to self-hatred.
Maybe it’s about incorporating morepositive affirmationsinto your life.
Then practice saying those words to yourself."
Fun things to do alone:
FAQ
Can people be truly happy alone?
Because all people, inevitably, will be alone sometimes.
How do I stop feeling so lonely?
Additionally, find ways to connect with others more regularly.
Reach out to an old friend and make plans.
Ask that co-worker to coffee.
Join a community sports team or group.
Start a book club.
The takeaway.
People can find deep, authentic happiness in their solitude.
