Adrian Volenik
Can you be happy without other people around you? Of course, especially if you’re an introvert or even an ambivert.
But what behavior describes happy loners? Is it introspection, unconventional thinking, and going on solo adventures? You betcha!
So stick around and find out how happy loners stick out like a sore thumb (that no one sees because they’re alone).
1) Solo adventures
Happy loners often embark on solo trips and adventures. They’re comfortable exploring new places and experiencing new things on their own, embracing the freedom and spontaneity it offers.
For example, one of my favorite YouTube channels is GIFGAS. It features a guy who’s train hopping all over Europe.
He meets like-minded people along the way, and they go on these multi-day adventures across borders, all the while sneaking and hiding from the railway workers and, of course, the police.
Many happy loners are like that. They’re drawn to exploring abandoned buildings, towns, or landscapes.
That’s because the quiet, forgotten spaces resonate with their introspective and adventurous nature.
2) Intellectual curiosity
With time for introspection and exploration, happy loners are curious about the world around them. They pursue new information and ideas, naturally leading to personal growth and knowledge.
In some cases, they get into a whirlwind of outright false and conspiratorial information that ultimately makes them weary of other people even more.
As a result, they can go from happy loners to wacky conspirators. This is often the issue with people that distance themselves from society.
That’s why you’re better off focusing on positive things and on solutions, not problems.
3) Unconventional thinking
Intellectual curiosity is often coupled with unconventional thinking. Freed from the influence of group dynamics, loners are more likely to think outside the box.
For example, Keanu Reeves is often cited as a happy loner due to his reserved and introspective behavior. He enjoys spending time alone and engaging in activities like reading and motorcycling.
On the other side, we also have Albert Einstein, who was known for his introspective nature and his tendency to spend long hours lost in thought.
He valued his solitude and believed it was essential for his scientific work and unique perspectives that led to innovative ideas and solutions.
4) Observational skills
Happy loners often have a keen eye for detail. They notice subtle aspects of their surroundings that others overlook. This results in a rich and nuanced understanding of the world.
For example, a friend prefers to work on projects independently. At work, he tackles complex tasks on his own. He enjoys researching new topics and learning new skills without needing constant guidance.
He also loves identifying areas where efficiency can be improved and regularly suggests ways to cut down on time-consuming tasks or proposes more effective methods.
Can you guess where he works? At Google, the company known for encouraging employees to spend up to 20% of their paid work time pursuing personal projects.
5) Digital creativity
Do you channel your creative energy into digital platforms and online spaces? Do you love creating online content, blogs, podcasts, or even engaging in virtual communities where you connect with like-minded individuals (like Reddit or Discord)?
If so, you might be a happy loner.
You see, this form of creativity provides a unique outlet for self-expression and a means to connect with others who share similar interests.
Plenty of people who work from home share this behavior. Others, perhaps, work two digital jobs if one doesn’t offer enough incentive.
That way, they satisfy their restless spirit and earn more than enough money.
6) Enjoying solitude
Surprise, surprise, happy loners enjoy solitude and privacy. What a revelation.
They find pleasure in spending time alone because it allows them to recharge, reflect on their thoughts and emotions, and engage in activities they enjoy without external pressures.
Spending time around others is also tiring for many of them, and they prefer spending time with their pets or fooling around on their laptop or phones.
There’s no such thing as boredom, only unimaginative people.
7) Comfort with silence
By now, you can guess that happy loners don’t feel the need to fill every moment with conversation.
They’re comfortable with silence and appreciate moments of quiet contemplation.
Unlike those who fear silence, loners appreciate its tranquility. They understand that silence can be a source of comfort and reflection, leading to mental clarity and peace.
For many outgoing people, being in silence is being trapped with their own thoughts. And that can be “dangerous.”
After all, idle hands are the devil’s workshop.
8) Appreciation for nature
And where can you enjoy being alone more than in nature?
Spending time alone in nature allows loners to recharge and find inspiration. They connect with the beauty of the natural world, listen to its soothing sounds, and make a positive impact on their overall well-being at the same time.
I personally prefer hiking, but I know many others that would rather sit on a bench in a park or have a picnic.
To each their own, I guess.
9) Independence
A hallmark trait of a happy loner is their strong sense of independence. This behavior is rooted in their ability to function autonomously, confidently make decisions, and navigate life without constantly relying on others.
Simply said, they’re self-reliant and confident. They’re not too dependent on others for guidance or validation and comfortably take initiative in all aspects of their lives.
They make decisions based on their own values, preferences, and goals instead of being swayed by external influences.
Ultimately, they trust their judgment and are comfortable taking responsibility for the outcomes of their choices.
10) Eclectic hobbies
I already mentioned how much some happy loners love solo adventures. On the other hand, they also have a range of hobbies and interests that reflect their eclectic and multifaceted nature.
These hobbies allow them to express themselves creatively and intellectually in different ways.
For example, I had a loner friend who enjoyed beekeeping and astrophotography. She appreciated both the intricate world of insects and the vastness of the universe.
11) Contentment
Some people are never content with their lives. But why is that? Do they expect too much from life? Do they live in the past or the future? Are they always chasing the bigger and the better?
The answer is yes. Yes to all of these.
And that’s what separates happy loners from the rest. They have a strong sense of self and don’t constantly seek external validation.
But, above all, they’re comfortable with who they are and find happiness in their own company.
12) Long-term perspective
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. However, that’s not something you’d deduct by looking at most people.
But, as we already learned, happy loners have a different perspective. They have a long-term outlook on life.
That’s why they’re often less influenced by short-term trends and fads, focusing instead on their long-term goals and aspirations.
Final thoughts
Now that you learned what behaviors describe happy loners, did you recognize yourself in them?
Are you a happy loner, or are you simply an introvert? Do you always prefer to be alone, or do you tolerate some people?
Whatever the answer, I just hope you’re comfortable in your own skin.
