Being alone can be tough, especially when it feels like everyone around us is happily paired up or surrounded by friends. It’s easy to start thinking that there’s something wrong with us or that we’re missing out on life’s greatest joys.
But here’s the thing: being alone doesn’t have to be lonely. In fact, it can be a time to explore your passions, take care of yourself, and simply relax and recharge.
If you’re looking for ways to enjoy your solo time and create a life you love, you’ve come to the right place. This article is packed with practical tips and ideas to help you embrace your alone time and find happiness from within!
So, get comfy, grab a cup of tea, and let’s explore the wonderful world of being happy alone!
Table of Contents
- Acknowledge How You Feel
- Question the Narrative
- Work on Your Relationship With Yourself
- Let Go of the Idea That You Are Missing Something
- Challenge Negative Thoughts
- Set Personal Goals
- Explore Your Interests and Hobbies
- Learn Something New
- Find a Creative Outlet
- Take a Break From Social Media
- Spend Time in Nature
- Carve Out Time to Let Your Mind Wander
- Travel Solo
- Get Lost in a Book
- Dance It Out
- Take Yourself on a Date
- Create a Cozy and Inviting Living Space
- Stay Physically Active
- Connect With Loved Ones Regularly
- Contribute to the Greater Good
- Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
- Adopt a Pet
- Romanticize Your Life
- Don’t Force It
- Excerpts From the Experts
- Final Thoughts
Acknowledge How You Feel
First things first: let’s get real with ourselves.
Maybe you’re newly single, or perhaps you’ve been on your own for a while and are just feeling a bit lonely. Whatever your situation, it’s totally normal to have a mix of emotions when you’re alone. You might feel sad, frustrated, or even a little scared—and that’s okay!
Instead of pushing those feelings away or pretending they don’t exist, try acknowledging them. Because here’s the thing: when we try to suppress our emotions, they tend to stick around and fester.
The truth is, emotions are signals. They point us to things we might need to change or accept in our lives. Feeling lonely might lead you to reach out to friends or join a community. Feeling excited could push you to explore new hobbies.
"Feel the feelings—you won't be stuck in them forever (unless you ignore them forever). Then, after you know the feelings exist, you can actually do something about them. For example, once you realize and accept, "Oh, I am actually really depressed that my relationship ended."—you can address the sadness."
— Laura F. Dabney, MD | Psychotherapist
Question the Narrative
There’s a common misconception that “being alone” and “being lonely” are the same thing, but they’re actually quite different.
Being alone simply means being physically by yourself, while loneliness is an emotional state characterized by feelings of isolation and disconnection, even when surrounded by people.
If you felt sad every single time you were alone, then what about all those showers you take or when you’re reading a book by yourself? Alone time is your chance to do whatever you want—without having to worry about anyone else.
So, next time you’re flying solo, think of it as something special. Enjoy the little things, like how peaceful it is to eat alone or stroll through the park at your own pace. When you start to see that alone doesn’t mean lonely, you can start making the most out of it.
Work on Your Relationship With Yourself
At the end of the day, the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one you have with yourself. And just like any other relationship, your relationship with yourself requires time, attention, and effort.
Start by getting to know yourself better. What are your values, passions, and dreams? What makes you tick? Exploring your inner world can be a fun and enlightening journey.
And don’t forget to forgive yourself. We all make mistakes, but holding onto guilt or shame will only weigh you down. Learn from your experiences and move forward with self-compassion.
Let Go of the Idea That You Are Missing Something
There’s always going to be something—a new gadget, a fancy vacation, a bigger house, a different job, a partner. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that happiness is just around the corner, waiting for us to achieve or acquire that next big thing.
But the truth is, happiness is available to us right now, in this moment. It’s about appreciating what we have, who we are, and where we are on our journey. Focusing on the positives is a powerful way to cultivate happiness.
Instead of focusing on what’s missing, try shifting your perspective to gratitude for all the good things in your life—your health, your loved ones, your talents, a sunny day, a good cup of coffee. Whatever brings you joy.
Challenge Negative Thoughts
We all have that inner critic—you know, that voice in our head that loves to point out our flaws, mistakes, and insecurities. And when you’re spending time alone, it can be easy for that voice to get a little louder.
But guess what? You don’t have to listen to that nonsense!
The next time you notice a negative thought popping up, try this:
- Recognize the thought for what it is—just a thought, not a fact.
- Question the narrative. Is it really true, or is it just your inner critic talking?
- Replace the negative thought with a more balanced, realistic one. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m all alone and no one cares,” try, “I have some time to myself to recharge and do things I enjoy.”
It’s all about perspectives!
Set Personal Goals
Setting personal goals is a fantastic way to stay motivated and create a sense of purpose, especially when you’re flying solo. Your goals can be anything that excites you – big or small, short-term or long-term.
Maybe you want to learn a new language, write a book, run a marathon, or finally declutter your closet. Whatever it is, having something to work towards gives you a sense of direction and accomplishment. Plus, it’s super satisfying to tick those goals off your list!
Here are a few tips for setting personal goals:
- Make them specific and measurable: Instead of “Get in shape,” try “Run a 5K race every 3 months.”
- Break down big goals into smaller steps: This makes them feel less overwhelming and helps you stay on track.
- Write them down and track your progress: This is a great way to stay accountable and motivated.
- Celebrate your successes along the way: Every step forward is worth celebrating!
Explore Your Interests and Hobbies
One of the best things about spending time alone is having the freedom to explore all those interests and hobbies you’ve been wanting to try.
The possibilities are endless. Maybe it’s something you loved doing as a kid, or perhaps it’s a brand-new passion waiting to be discovered. Well, now’s your chance!
So, don’t be afraid to try new things and see what sticks. You never know—you might just discover a hidden talent or a lifelong passion. And even if you don’t, you’ll still have a blast in the process. That’s what it’s all about, right?
Learn Something New
Speaking of trying new things, why not challenge yourself to learn something new? There’s a whole world out there ready to teach you something nifty, and when you’re rolling solo, you get to pick what that is.
- Always wanted to speak another language? There are tons of apps and online courses that can help.
- Curious about coding or web design? Check out some free online tutorials.
- Maybe you’re interested in history, astronomy, or psychology—the local library or bookstore is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be discovered.
So, yeah, pick a thing, anything, and jump in. Before long, you’ll be doing things you never thought you could, and that’s something to be proud of.
Find a Creative Outlet
We all have a creative spark within us, even if it’s been buried under a mountain of to-do lists and responsibilities. Finding a creative outlet is a fantastic way to express yourself, relieve stress, and tap into your inner artist.
There are endless ways to be creative, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for you. Maybe you enjoy painting, writing, playing music, dancing, or even cooking up a storm in the kitchen—kidding!
So try it, get messy, make noise, whatever feels good to you. The point is to have fun and let your imagination run wild.
Take a Break From Social Media
Sometimes, signing out of your social media can be a breath of fresh air. It’s crazy how much time we can spend scrolling without even noticing. A break can give you back that time, and you can use it to do stuff that makes you feel good instead.
Imagine what you could do with a few extra hours. You could finish reading that book sitting on your nightstand, start a mini garden, or just enjoy being still for a bit. Not everything we do needs to be “likeable” or shared. Some moments are just for you, and that’s what makes them so sweet.
Stepping away from the screen helps you connect with the real world again. You’ll likely find that you’re perfectly happy on your own, enjoying real life as it happens.
Spend Time in Nature
There’s something incredibly peaceful and grounding about being in nature. When you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in your own head, stepping outside can be a great way to reset and recharge.
Whether it’s a hike in the mountains, a stroll through a nearby park, or simply sitting in your backyard, make a point to spend some time in nature each day. Take deep breaths of fresh air, feel the sun on your skin, and listen to the sounds of birds and rustling leaves.
Time in nature can clear your head and help you think more clearly when you get back to the hustle and bustle. It’s a break for your brain. So, next time you need a pause, step outside and let Mother Nature do her thing.
Carve Out Time to Let Your Mind Wander
In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the constant stream of thoughts, to-do lists, and distractions. But guess what? Our minds need time to wander just as much as our bodies need rest.
When was the last time you simply allowed your mind to wander?
Set aside some time each day to daydream, fantasize, and explore your own thoughts without any pressure or expectations. You can do this while taking a long bath, going for a walk, or simply lying in bed before you start your day.
Giving yourself time to just “be” is like treating yourself to a mini-vacation right in your head. It’s refreshing, and often, when you least expect it, some of your best ideas will pop up out of nowhere.
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Travel Solo
Traveling solo can be an incredibly empowering and transformative experience. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, discover new places on your own terms, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Sure, it might seem a bit daunting at first, but the rewards are more than worth it. You get to choose your own itinerary, go at your own pace, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture. Plus, solo travel is a fantastic way to boost your confidence, independence, and self-reliance.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway to a nearby town or a backpacking adventure across the globe, consider taking the plunge and embarking on a solo travel adventure. You might just discover a whole new side of yourself—and the world!
Get Lost in a Book
Sometimes, the best escape doesn’t require a plane ticket— it just needs a page flip. It’s like stepping into a different world, experiencing new perspectives, and living a thousand lives through the characters on the page.
Whether you’re into thrilling mysteries, heartwarming romances, or thought-provoking non-fiction, there’s a book out there for every mood and interest. And the best part is, you can do it all from the comfort of your couch!
So, next time you have some alone time, curl up with a good book and let yourself get swept away by the story. You might just learn something new, gain a fresh perspective, or simply enjoy a few hours of pure escapism.
Dance It Out
Dancing is not only a fun way to exercise, but it’s also a fantastic mood booster and stress reliever. Plus, it’s something you can totally do by yourself in the privacy of your own home.
Crank up your favorite tunes, let loose, and dance like nobody’s watching (because, well, they’re not!). Whether you prefer to bust out your best moves to pop hits, sway to some slow jams, or get your groove on with some classic rock, just let the music move you.
Don’t worry about looking silly. The best dancer out there is the one having the most fun, and that can be you. Next time you’ve got the house to yourself, fill it with music and clap along to the beat of your own drum.
Take Yourself on a Date
Who says you need a partner to enjoy a nice date? Treating yourself to a solo date is a wonderful way to practice self-love, explore your interests, and simply have some fun!
Think about the things you enjoy doing and plan a special outing just for you. Maybe it’s going to see a movie you’ve been wanting to watch, trying out a new restaurant, visiting a museum, or taking a relaxing stroll through a park.
The point is to do something that makes you happy and to enjoy your own company. Don’t be afraid to get dressed up, put on your favorite music, and make it a truly special occasion. You deserve it!
Create a Cozy and Inviting Living Space
Your living space should be your sanctuary—a place where you feel comfortable, relaxed, and happy. And when you’re spending more time alone, it’s especially important to create an environment that feels inviting and reflects your personal style.
Think about what cozy means to you. Maybe it’s a bunch of plants turning your room into a mini-jungle or fairy lights twinkling around your window. Or it could be as simple as keeping things neat so you feel at peace.
Each little touch you add to your space makes it more inviting for you. It’s about making your home somewhere you’re excited to spend time in. Because when you do, every evening feels like a special night in, where you’re in your favorite spot in the whole world—your own little haven.
Stay Physically Active
When you’re flying solo, it can be easy to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. But staying physically active does wonders for your mental and emotional well-being.
Regular exercise can boost your mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase your energy levels—all of which contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.
The good news is, there are plenty of ways to stay active when you’re on your own. You could:
- Take a daily walk or jog around your neighborhood.
- Follow along with workout videos on YouTube.
- Join an online fitness class or challenge.
- Try a new sport or physical activity that you’ve always wanted to learn.
Find what works for you and make it a regular part of your routine.
Remember, consistency is more important than intensity. Even if you can only fit in a short workout or a quick walk around the block, it’s still better than doing nothing at all.
Connect With Loved Ones Regularly
Now, just because you’ve aced being alone doesn’t mean you’ve got to be a hermit. Catching up with family and friends, even if it’s just over the phone, provides a sense of belonging, support, and love.
It’s not about the quantity of chats; it’s the quality that counts. You could:
- Schedule a weekly call with a friend.
- Send a “thinking of you” text.
- Share a meal over a video call now and then.
These little bits of connection keep your relationships warm, and let’s be honest, they can make you feel pretty darn good, too. They’re reminders that even though you’re nailing this independent thing, you’ve still got a place in other people’s lives.
Contribute to the Greater Good
Feeling good about ourselves isn’t just about what we do for ourselves—it’s also about what we do for others.
It could be as simple as donating things you don’t need anymore or spending an afternoon helping out at a local charity. Or maybe you’ve got skills to share, like fixing things or writing. Use what you’re good at to make someone else’s day brighter.
When you help others, you’re planting seeds of joy that grow in two gardens—yours and theirs. Every good deed adds up, and when you look back, you’ll see a trail of happiness that you’ve helped to create.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation might sound a bit fancy, but they’re simpler than you think. These practices can help you stay grounded, centered, and focused on the present moment.
Mindfulness is all about paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. You can practice mindfulness anytime, anywhere—whether you’re washing dishes, taking a walk, or just sitting quietly.
Meditation takes mindfulness to the next level by providing a structured way to train your mind. There are many different types of meditation, but most involve focusing on your breath or a specific mantra.
This is a workout for your inner self. And just like physical exercise, it’s healthy and builds strength over time. Plus, when you’re in tune with the moment, you get a fresh view of things, and that alone can be a huge happiness boost.
"Meditation is my highway to happiness. To begin, I require time out of my day—morning and night—to be in stillness. Be in a place where I cannot be disturbed. I gently close my eyes and take a deep breath in, following the breath as it travels throughout my body.
The sensations of relaxation, peace, and harmony, bring me to the present moment and I smile, knowing that focusing on choosing happiness is my goal.
Then exhale it all out saying thank you for this very moment of clarity. I do this two more times and tap into what happiness is to me."
— Krista Nerestant | Certified Neuro-Linguistic Life Coach, Self-ish Lifestyle
Adopt a Pet
Okay, this one comes with a disclaimer: adopting a pet is a big responsibility and not something to be taken lightly. But, if you’re ready for the commitment, having a furry (or feathered or scaled) friend by your side can bring so much joy and companionship to your life.
Pets offer unconditional love, laughter, and a sense of purpose. They can also motivate you to stay active, provide a sense of routine, and help you feel less alone. Whether you choose a cuddly cat, a playful pup, a chirpy bird, or even a low-maintenance fish, having a pet to care for can add a whole new dimension of happiness to your solo life.
Of course, it’s important to do your research and choose a pet that fits your lifestyle and living situation. But if you’re up for the challenge, adopting a pet might just be one of the best decisions you ever make!
Romanticize Your Life
Who says romance is only for couples? Romanticizing your life is all about finding beauty and magic in everyday moments, creating a life that feels special and meaningful to you.
Think about the things that make you feel happy and inspired, and find ways to incorporate them into your daily routine. Maybe it’s starting your day with a delicious breakfast and your favorite music, taking a long, relaxing bath with candles and essential oils, or having a picnic lunch in a beautiful park.
When you start to see the beauty in everyday moments, your life becomes a lot more magical, even when you’re alone.
Don’t Force It
Here’s the thing about happiness: you can’t force it. It’s not something you can achieve or acquire overnight. It’s a journey, not a destination—as they always say.
So, if you’re not feeling 100% happy all the time when you’re alone, that’s perfectly okay! Don’t put pressure on yourself to feel a certain way. Instead, be patient with yourself and trust the process.
Some days, you might feel like embracing your solitude and doing all the things you love. On other days, you might feel more social and want to connect with others. Totally fine! Always listen to your inner voice and do what feels right for you at each moment.
Excerpts From the Experts
“Being alone is something that has gained an interesting reputation. Many feel bad for you or give you that “aw” reaction. I’m twenty-two years old, I’ve been single for over two years now, and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. How do I manage to pull this off?
Getting used to the typical questions some people ask is important. You’ll get the “Are you talking to anyone?“, ” Anyone new in your life?“. It’s so common that people almost immediately assume your role in life is to date others!
Throughout these two years, I’ve spent a lot of time alone. I’ve grown comfortable with myself. I’ve analyzed and continue to analyze aspects of myself that I’ve never taken the time to understand.
I unveil and eventually heal layers of suffering that allow me to get a little closer to my truth every day. I follow my gut and trust that nothing occurs without reason. I understand that “Who I am is so magnificent that being squeezed into a human body can be painful at times.”
Being alone is not painful if we find joy from within. We don’t seek external satisfaction. We don’t crave a love we already hold. Rather, when we take the time to awaken/unveil these feelings of love, truth, and compassion, they start to manifest in our external world tenfold. The key is starting from within and watching as your external reality reflects what you are emitting.”
— Mariel Lantero | Founder, Onlyup.co
“I have traveled to Europe numerous times on my own and find that I have the most exciting adventures when I am meeting people on the road—which might not happen if I were busy chatting with a travel partner…
One of the favorite days of my life, so much fun I remember it many years later, was a solo birthday celebration. I drove the hour into San Francisco, had lunch at a French bistro, walked the streets browsing interesting shops, and, on a whim, bought a print that struck my fancy. (A picture of children on a beach, it hung in my office until my retirement, when I gave it to a staff member who had always commented on it.)
After my wanderings, without having to be concerned about what someone else would want to do, I saw a Russian film and then headed home. A perfect day and the ultimate self-indulgence.
…My strategy at this time in my life is simply to be open to opportunities that arise. I go out with friends or alone. I welcome invitations from married friends. I am open to being introduced to new people.
And sometimes, I enjoy just hanging out by myself, writing, reading, watching my favorite TV programs. Life is too short to not enjoy every possible moment.”
— Christie Mann | Author, Laugh and Live, Advice for Aging Boomers
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—a whole bunch of ideas to help you rock your alone time! Remember, being happy on your own is all about exploring what works for you. Try out these tips, mix and match, and create your own recipe for happiness.
The most important thing is to be kind to yourself, embrace your journey, and enjoy the freedom and opportunities that come with being alone. You’ve got this!
