While extroverts love to be surrounded by people and enjoy the spotlight, those who are more introverted prefer one-on-one hangouts and a lot of time on their own. While this might be hard to understand for people who aren’t wired that way, people who thrive on solitude are a whole different, cool breed. If you’re in the latter camp, you might recognise some of these behaviours in your own life.
1. They have intense imaginary conversations.
You know, the ones where you mentally debate with yourself or someone else, playing out different scenarios and responses. It might sound weird, but for people who legitimately love being alone, it’s a way to process thoughts and feelings, practice social skills, and even just explore different ideas. These imaginary conversations can be surprisingly insightful and helpful for making decisions or solving problems.
2. They talk to themselves out loud.
Ever caught yourself muttering to yourself while walking down the street or doing chores? People who truly enjoy their own company often talk to themselves out loud as a way to organize their thoughts, work through issues, or even just express themselves. It might seem strange to some people, but it’s a perfectly normal and healthy way to process information and emotions, Psych Central notes. Some even find that talking to themselves helps them come up with creative solutions or innovative ideas.
3. They have elaborate rituals and routines.
From meticulously arranging their workspace to brewing their morning coffee in a specific way, people who thrive on solitude tend to have elaborate rituals and routines that help them feel grounded and centred. These rituals are comforting and make the chaotic world feel a little less crazy. Whether it’s a daily meditation practice or a weekly film night with themselves, these routines help them create a sense of structure and stability in their lives.
4. They really love nature and the outdoors.
Solitude and nature often go hand in hand. People who enjoy being alone are often drawn to the peace and tranquillity of the natural world. They might spend hours hiking, camping, or even just sitting in the garden, observing the sights and sounds around them. Nature makes them feel grounded and at ease, and it allows them to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings, and they’re drawn to the simple pleasures it brings.
5. They’re voracious readers.
For people who love being alone, books are often their best friends. They can lose themselves in stories, explore new places, and get to know new people without ever leaving their house. They probably have an extensive library, a towering stack of unread books on the night stand, or a subscription to every literary magazine out there. Reading is not just a pastime for them; it’s a way to connect with the world, broaden their horizons, and escape into different realities.
6. They have a secret (or not-so-secret) collection of obscure hobbies.
People who enjoy solo time often have a wide range of interests and hobbies that might seem a bit quirky or unusual to other people. Maybe they’re passionate about birdwatching, collecting antique clocks, or learning ancient languages. Whatever the case, these hobbies provide a creative outlet, a sense of accomplishment, and a way to connect with like-minded people in the world. They also add a lot of depth and complexity to their personality, which just makes them more interesting and intriguing.
7. They have an incredibly strong sense of self.
One of the most admirable qualities of people who thrive on solitude is their unwavering sense of self. They know who they are, what they value, and what they want out of life. They’re not easily swayed by popular opinion or outside pressure. They stay true to themselves, even when it means going against the grain or standing alone. This sense of self-assuredness gives them strength, and it helps them navigate life much more calmly and competently.
8. Their inner dialogue is extremely active.
For people who relish alone time, the mind is a playground. They’re constantly reflecting on their experiences, analysing their emotions, and considering the meaning of life. This inner dialogue can be a source of creativity, inspiration, and self-discovery. It also helps them develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. While this constant mental chatter might seem overwhelming to some people, it’s a natural and essential part of their existence.
9. They enjoy eavesdropping on strangers’ conversations.
Not in a creepy way, of course! But they do find the snippets of conversations they overhear at cafés, on public transport, or even in line at the grocery store to be fascinating. It’s a window into other people’s lives, a source of inspiration for their own writing or art, or simply a way to pass the time. They might even create elaborate backstories for the people they see, imagining what their lives must be like. They’re not trying to invade anyone’s privacy, they’re just naturally curious.
10. They have a deep appreciation for the mundane.
While others might crave excitement and adventure, people who thrive on solitude find beauty in the everyday experiences most people would find boring. They appreciate the simple pleasures of a quiet morning, a cup of tea, a walk in the park, or a good conversation with a friend. These rituals make their lives so much happier and more fulfilling. It also means they can slow down, enjoy the moment, and be happy with even the most ordinary of things.
11. They have a love-hate relationship with technology.
Source: Unsplash On one hand, technology provides access to tons of information, entertainment, and social connection. On the other hand, it can be a major source of distraction and somewhat overwhelming (hello, doomscrolling). People who enjoy solitude often have a love-hate relationship with technology as a result. They might spend hours scrolling through social media, only to feel drained and disconnected afterwards. They may use it to connect with people , but also crave time away from screens to recharge and reconnect with themselves.
12. They have a knack for finding hidden gems and secret spots.
Whether it’s a cosy bookshop tucked away on a side street, a secluded beach with breathtaking views, or a hidden café with the best coffee in town, people who enjoy solitude often have a knack for discovering hidden gems. They’re not afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known corners of their city or town. This sense of adventure and curiosity allows them to find unique experiences and hidden treasures that other people might not know about.
13. They have a strong sense of social justice and a desire to make the world a better place.
People who spend a lot of time in their own company are usually deeply empathetic and compassionate individuals who care about social justice and making a positive impact on the world. They might volunteer their time, donate to causes they believe in, or use their skills and talents to help people in need. Their solitude allows them to reflect on the world’s problems and come up with creative solutions. They might not always be on the front lines of activism, but they’re quietly working behind the scenes to make a difference.
14. They have a lot of dreams, aspirations, and creative projects.
People who thrive on solitude often have a vibrant inner world filled with dreams, aspirations, and creative projects. They might spend hours writing, painting, composing music, or even just daydreaming about their future. It’s a source of inspiration, motivation, and fulfilment. It allows them to express themselves, explore their creativity, and connect with their deepest desires and aspirations.
15. They’re not afraid to challenge authority or question the status quo.
They’re usually independent thinkers who aren’t afraid to challenge authority or question the status quo. They value their own autonomy and are not easily swayed by peer pressure or popular opinion. This independent spirit can be a source of inspiration to others and can help to bring about positive change in the world.
16. They have a deep appreciation for art, music, and other forms of creative expression.
Source: Unsplash People who thrive on solitude often find solace and inspiration in art, music, and other forms of creative expression. They might spend hours listening to music, visiting art galleries, or attending live performances. They might also be artists or musicians themselves, who use their creative talents to express their emotions, experiences, and perspectives. This appreciation for the arts enriches their lives, provides a sense of meaning and purpose, and helps them connect with others on a deeper level.
17. They have a strong sense of resilience and can bounce back from setbacks.
People who enjoy being on their own are often resilient and adaptable. They’ve learned to cope with challenges and setbacks by relying on their own inner strength and resourcefulness. They might not always ask other people for help, but they’re able to find their own way through difficult situations. This resilience enables them to overcome obstacles, learn from their mistakes, and continue to grow and evolve as people.
18. They have a deep appreciation for the present moment.
Source: Unsplash They’re typically more mindful and present than those who are constantly surrounded by people. They’re able to appreciate the simple joys of life, and they’re not always chasing after the next big thing or worrying about the future. They’re content to be in the present moment and savour the experience. This mindfulness allows them to live more fully and appreciate life for what it is.
