Living ALONE: Best Tips + Advice (loneliness, responsibility)
I am an introvert, and have always hated sharing a home with others. I don’t do roommates well. In my past experience with roommates, people have stolen from me, even after I was dumb enough to feel sorry for their sob story and give them a chance to reside under my roof. They stole my brand new clothes, some of my deceased older brother’s belongings that were given to me by my mom, ate all the food in my house, left a nasty mess and it was hard for me to kick them out. I wouldn’t have a roommate from that point on. Any roommate I’ve ever had in the past had done me wrong in the past, and that’s the price you pay for being a nice person.
I would personally prefer to live alone, simply because I have trust issues with people in general. I prefer to be alone. People ask me if I get lonely. Well, of course I do. A lot of people who live by themselves have a tendency to get lonely from time to time, as we all do. But for me, I’d say about 95% of the time, I ENJOY being alone. It’s also an Aquarius thing, because Aquarius people are known for being independent. That’s what I like about living alone. I don’t have to tell anyone about my day, I don’t have to face anyone when I get home, I don’t have to answer to anyone, I can eat what I want, when I want, without anyone questioning me. One thing I personally hate about living with others, is the constant “How was your day” and “What did you do today” or “What’d you have for lunch” or intrusive questions like that. I’m a very personal and private person who doesn’t feel the need to broadcast every move I make, as that is what causes me not to feel independent.
Also, I live alone because my mental illness won’t let me live with others. I always get into verbal altercations with someone, because they always have to offer up their unsolicited life advice, and that’s annoying as hell. I’ve had roommates in the past who tried to take over my place. Once I stood up for myself and put my foot down, they didn’t like that at all. SO, to avoid all of this, I live alone by choice. Feels great to be able to get up and not have someone hogging the bathroom, feels good to come home to a quiet house, feels good not to have to wait for the washer and dryer to be available. I can pretty much do as I please (of course, in a legal sense, not being an obnoxious tenant, of course), and I have all the thinking space I need. And when I’ve gotta take a shit, it’s great that I don’t have to risk shitting myself because nobody is hogging the bathroom. I can decorate how I want, play my music as loud as I want (my neighbors said they don’t care, and my landlord doesn’t care, either, so that’s a plus for me), and I’m a musician, so I need the space to myself.
7 WAYS TO LIVE ALONE | How To Deal With Loneliness | Naturally Negeen
You may not actually believe this - but I have had extended periods in my life where I was totally alone without anyone - absolutely no one. And I think I wanted this - so as to grow, learn and evolve. So it is possible to live without anyone - as in no one - totally no one - yes. I know some people like this. And especially during meditation, fasting and penance - they can do it for extended periods of time - that too with total and absolute silence. (Imagine - no talking at all and perfect silence for 2 weeks). In fact in some prison camps - they jail violent inmates for up to 3 months in solitary confinements - which seriously is like the ultimate form of mental toughness. Can you imagine - no book, internet, no one to talk to, nothing to do - other than sit down and wait - with not even a clock or watch for 3 months?
However, if you are planning to do this voluntarily - I would highly recommend you try it for a few days and test yourself. Its truly an experience that helps you grow and evolve.
And so to answer your question - Is it possible - Yes. For how long - that depends on person to person. In my case, I think after a few months it kind of got to me and I couldn’t take it anymore.
Is it easy to live alone?
Living alone is heaven for some and hell for others. I love living alone, but at first, I was overrun by a mixture of fear and excitement.
4 Reasons Why You SHOULD Live Alone | Everyone Needs To Do This | Naturally Negeen
If you’re living alone for the first time, it could be a startling experience more than it’s an empowering one. That’s normal. Things that might seem trivial to some could be more challenging for you. There will be a lot of firsts. For instance, the first time I had to kill a spider on my own, I was terrified. When someone tried to break into my car in my driveway, I had to call the police and file a report, lean on my neighbors for support, then find enough security to go back to sleep.
It’s helpful to remember that a major misconception about living alone is that you are 100% all alone. That couldn’t be further from the truth in a time when a connection is just a text message away. However, it can feel lonely, and it can be overwhelming. It helps to be prepared and adjust your perspective as needed.
I have lived alone for years and have acquired plenty of advice along the way. These living alone tips will guide you through some common emotions and challenges many of us face during this life transition. Hopefully, there is some actionable advice that will help you morph into a thriving, independent person that enjoys the benefits of living on your own.
1. Change the locks and give yourself a sense of security.
changing a lock when living alone
Fear is a common emotion when people live alone. However, there are things you can do to give yourself an added layer of security. If possible, change the locks when you first move into your new place. This step will help you feel secure knowing that no strangers have access to your home. If you’re renting, ask your landlord if they change the locks in between rentals. If they don’t, make a request and offer to pay for it.
what it's ACTUALLY like LIVING ALONE | Naturally Negeen
If you are especially susceptible to fear, make sure you find a place to live that caters to a sense of security. Research neighborhoods with low crime rates. Also, seek out apartment complexes that are gated and have security systems in place. The added cost might be worth it for you.
2. Decorate the apartment to your taste.
One benefit of living alone is that you can decorate however you want without having to compromise. If you are living alone for the first time after a tough breakup or divorce, finding your design style can be invigorating. Don’t think about what is trendy or what your friends tell you looks good. Channel your inner Joanna Gaines and pick out furniture and decor pieces that make you feel happy and comfortable.
Read Also: First Apartment Checklist for Renters on a Budget
3. Live within your means.
creating a budget for living alone
Living alone is a challenge because you’re the only one that is contributing to the household income. You must pay all the bills and make sure all the chores are done. This basic task can become monumentally more stressful if you don’t live within your means. What this means is that you must make more than you’re spending. This fact seems obvious, but it’s far from it.
It’s so easy to spend mindlessly and not even realize you are overdoing it. Try to maintain a monthly budget with real figures and keep an eye on your spending. Make sacrifices like a smaller apartment if you can’t afford your current living situation. A smaller space will be far less stressful than an empty bank account. There are tons of free budgeting apps to get you started.
What Is It Like To Live Alone? (r/AskReddit)
Ways you can spend less living alone:
Plan your grocery list in advance and use coupons.
Put your utilities on a budget plant.
Maximize space in a studio apartment instead of a one-bedroom.
Buy second-hand furniture and clothing.
4. Cultivate independence by becoming self-reliant.
If you have lived with family or roommates your whole life, living alone can feel empty and hard. There is no one to vent to when you had a rough day at work. There’s no one to mow the lawn. Sure, you could dump your frustrations in a text message or hire a lawn service, but it’s helpful to try to work through these issues on your own to a certain extent.
When you’re able to self soothe and manage minor problems and tasks on your own, you will not only feel stronger, but you’ll get to know yourself better in the process too. This self-reliance can lead to a lot of growth and maybe make you a more compassionate person in the long run.
Sadhguru Talks About Importance of Being Alone and Being Silent | Mystics Of India
Ways to cultivate self-reliance:
Learn how to fix a leaky sink on your own.
Cook meals for one person and enjoy them.
Take a hot bath when you’re feeling stressed out.
Keep your apartment clean and your laundry folded.
Adopt a pet and take good care of it.
5. Adopt a compassionate attitude toward yourself.
practice kindness sign
Sometimes being self-reliant is a struggle, but it’s a big mistake to beat yourself up about it. If you paid a bill late and overdrew your checking account, those negative feelings will only be made worse if you compile that with additional negative self-talk. When you’re living alone, you need to be your own best friend. Treat yourself how you would treat a friend with a kind and compassionate tone that is open to making mistakes.
6. Try not to isolate yourself from others.
Many people like living alone because it is quiet and drama-free. However, if you’ve had a tough go in relationships, you might also fall into the tendency of isolating yourself. Make a concerted effort to socialize weekly if possible. As much as you need to be self-reliant, you also need to be able to depend on people and have a social circle that cares for you and loves you. Living alone will be filled with a lot less heartache if you continue to connect with people outside of the home.
Feeling Lonely? | Overcoming Loneliness | Sadhguru
7. Get to know your neighbors.
mailboxes side by side
Neighbors can either make or break a living experience, especially if you’re living in a city or an apartment complex. Be kind when you first move in and make an effort to get to know your neighbors. They might not become your best friends, but they may be someone you can call for a stick of butter or when the pipes are leaky, and you need some immediate assistance.
8. Appreciate the perks of living alone.
Think about some positive things you’ll gain from living alone. If everything seems grim now, try to find at least one silver lining. This perk could be as simple as being able to watch a guilty pleasure TV show that your family or spouse previously hated. You might have a newfound appreciation for your privacy and the ability to treat yourself however you want without any outside judgment. You can even skip the dishes for a night or two. Create a home you absolutely love when you live alone, and eventually, the time might come when you want to share it with someone. And if not, that’s okay too.
I hope these tips helped you gain some insight into your upcoming transition. Living alone is not necessarily easy, but it’s also not the worst thing, either. Treat yourself and your home with love and acceptance, and you’ll do just fine.
If you want to live alone, or are forced to by circumstances, the best way to do that is to date yourself.
Learning to Enjoy Being Alone is a Superpower | Joe Rogan and Naval Ravikant
Be the kind of person for yourself that you seek in a life partner.
Imagine who you want that to be and then act like that for yourself.
Do you want this person to be supportive?
Do you want them to push you to be better?
Would you go on dates with this person?
If so, where to and why there?
Would you want to do more things with this person in general, other than the usual time-wasters? What kind of things would you like to share with them?
Would you start new things with them, if so, what things?
Everything you answer you start doing with yourself.
- Go out to eat at your favorite restaurant.
- Order food and do a special movie night.
- Start a new hobby.
- Learn a New Skill.
- Invite your Friends to join you when you go out.
- Go see that movie in theatres that you keep wanting to see.
Essentially: Do everything you want to do in spite of maybe having to be there on your own.
How To Deal With Loneliness - Especially While Self-Actualizing
Live for you just as you would a partner!
A lot of people feel so alone because they do not get outside unless they are with someone.
They coop up inside and never explore what they really want to do alone.
Instead of making their life an adventure they wait for someone to do it for them.
Start to think about what it is that you want to do for yourself instead of waiting for someone to come around that you can either do things for or that does things for you!
Yes, that does mean you need to be a bit courageous, but it mostly means you need to actually think about what you want to do and then do it.
Living alone means you have the ability to do what you want, when you want, for whatever reason you want; all you have to do is make the most of that ability.
Loneliness often stems from not doing what you need to do to live a fulfilling life and has less to do with having someone around.
Companionship can be included in the things that lead to a fulfilling life to you, but is not something that everybody needs.
That being said, if you do live alone or feel lonely then start by figuring out what fills your life.
Start by exploring your hobbies a bit more, by exercising and by actually taking yourself outside!
Go places, do new and interesting things, and try your best to treat yourself.
Do everything you would do with someone alone.
How To Be Happy SINGLE | 5 Tips On Being Alone | Naturally Negeen
Be courageous enough to date yourself.
If you can bring up the courage to do that you will fill your life and make having someone by your side a bonus instead of feeling like it is a requirement for a happy life.
Setting up house alone for the first time?
If you’ve just left a sibling or two who practices a what’s-yours-is-mine philosophy, or decided to try something new after a succession of bad roommates, you might feel beyond ready.
But maybe you aren’t positively thrilled by your new circumstances. If you just went through a breakup with a live-in partner or had other plans that didn’t pan out how you’d hoped, you might settle into your new place with disappointment clouding the situation.
No matter what you’re feeling — excitement, stress, or anything in between— it’s normal to have some nervousness, too.
But you can absolutely live alone, safely, without feeling alone in the world. Here are some pointers to help you embrace your newfound solitude and find fulfillment in living solo.
1. Get to know yourself better
Living alone can help you find the time to work on your most important relationship — the one you have with yourself.
How to Feel Whole & Complete On Your Own | Isabel Palacios
Until you live alone for the first time, it’s pretty common to spend most of your time in the company of others. When you focus on maintaining strong connections with friends, family, and romantic partners, though, your relationship with yourself might take a backseat.
If you’re realizing you may not know yourself as well as you imagined, now you have the chance to really take possession of your life. A self-discovery journey can be a great way to kick off this new adventure
You might consider what you like doing with your free time, your favorite foods, and whether you actually enjoy watching all that Netflix (not that there’s anything wrong with that). But don’t forget the deeper questions, too.
If you’ve just left home or ended a relationship, exploring future goals and personal values can help you gain some insight on your identity and the path you want your life to take. A well-developed sense of self can make it easier to identify what you want and need from relationships with others.
Don’t worry if none of this seems immediately clear, since this type of exploration can take time.
Tip: Try journaling to track and sort through your thoughts.
2. Strengthen your relationships
Along with soul searching, living alone gives you the chance to examine your relationships and note the ones that don’t do much for your well-being.
how to: BE HAPPY SINGLE!
Maybe your roommate’s friends automatically became your friends, but you never grew close to any of them. Or you spent most of the last year hanging out with your partner, guiltily feeling the distance between you and your friends widen.
If these stories sound familiar, take some time to identify positive relationships with people who lift you up and add value to your life. Going forward, you can prioritize these important connections.
Remember, you’re under no obligation to spend your free time with people who make you unhappy, so invest your time in the meaningful friendships.
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3. Identify when you feel most lonely
No matter how much you enjoy living alone, you may feel lonely from time to time. These feelings might come up around the times of day you associate with seeing people.
ENJOY LIFE ALONE - Jordan Peterson (Best Motivational Speech)
If you and your previous roommates usually all returned from work at the same time, coming home to an empty house might be rough.
And if you’ve just left a relationship? It’s absolutely normal to miss that intimacy of snuggling up next to your partner (but it’s also totally normal to love having the bed to yourself now).
There’s good news, though: Knowing where loneliness comes from can help you manage it. And being alone doesn’t have to translate to loneliness.
If you’re a morning person and really miss conversation over breakfast, try planning brunch with friends. When your evenings feel quiet and empty, turn on some music as you unwind from work and make dinner.
If your loneliness is more physical in nature, don’t overlook the value of hugging yourself.
WERBUNG
4. Consider a pet
Always longed for a furry companion? Now’s your chance, since you no longer need to worry about a roommate’s allergies or a sibling’s fear of dogs.
With a pet, you’ll never come back to an empty house. Pets also offer physical comfort (stroking a dog can release mood-boosting hormones) and entertainment, as countless pet videos on YouTube prove.
How To Live Alone | A Year By Myself
Days feel a little aimless? Having a pet makes it easier to stick to a schedule, since they need regular feeding and care. If you need a reason to get out more, a dog will hold you accountable for a few daily walks.
Can’t have a cat or dog? Consider a bird, fish, reptile, or small mammal. They may not be quite as sociable or cuddly, but they can still make great pets. Just read up on their care before making a decision — some need special diets, while others may live for more years than you’re ready to commit to.
Speaking of commitment issues, you can also look into fostering programs. Many shelters have programs that allow you to temporarily provide a home for animals in need. The animal gets to unwind in a cozy home, and you get to have a pet without all the commitment — everyone wins!
5. Connect with your community
Loneliness doesn’t always strike where you might imagine it would.
According to 2016 researchTrusted Source, people who live alone often spend more time with friends or in their community than married people do, and many people in unhappy marriages report feelings of loneliness, despite not living alone.
Yes, this means that living alone might actually result in you feeling less lonely than those who aren’t.
The key is exploring new ways to connect in your community.
How To Be Alone | 4 Healthy Ways
Not sure how to connect?
Here are a few starters:
Check community schools, shelters, and libraries for volunteering opportunities.
Participate in community events, like marches, sidewalk sales, and barbecues.
Get acquainted with neighbors, especially those seem to have shared interests.
Frequent small businesses and get to know other regulars.
6. Add some structure
Following a regular schedule can help boost purpose and motivation, improving overall well-being as a result.
Routines often help relieve stress and loneliness, since keeping busy can distract you from unwanted feelings. Making regular plans with friends and loved ones can also help keep loneliness and anxiety at bay.
Just avoid packing your schedule too full. Overbooking yourself can lead you to check out mentally and keep you from mindfully appreciating the things you enjoy. Instead, you might end up simply going through the motions, which can create additional challenges.
Some tips to consider:
Schedule time each week for housecleaning, errands, and other chores so these don’t build up.
Try to go to bed and wake up around the same general time each day.
Set time aside for relaxation and hobbies.
And finally, while a routine can do you a lot of good, there’s no need to plan out every minute. Leaving room for spontaneity has plenty of benefits, too!
How Much it Realistically Costs to Live on Your Own - Minimalist Living
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7. Try new things
Exploring new interests is an important part of self-discovery.
It’s not always easy to experiment in front of an audience. You might feel nervous about trying new things in front of family members, roommates, or romantic partners. What if you totally lack artistic talent? Or find out you don’t like playing guitar after spending time and money on lessons and practice?
While these questions have merit, it’s also worth considering that a life without a little trial and failure can be pretty limited. Doing the same things with the same people isn’t necessarily bad. But breaking out of typical patterns can expand your perspective, help you grow, and connect you with new people.
10 Things No One Tells You About Living Alone
Now that no one’s watching, challenge yourself to explore things you’ve always longed to try — new cooking styles, crafts or DIY projects, physical activities, even new genres of music and movies.
Online video tutorials or how-to blogs can help you determine whether you’re really interested in something before you invest a significant chunk of cash.
8. Create your ideal space
While interior design may not help banish feelings of loneliness, creating a space that’s wholly your own can go a long way toward helping you feel more comfortable.
It’s common to feel unsettled or disoriented in a new place. But when you put in the effort to make it really feel like home, it becomes a relaxing sanctuary, somewhere you want to return to at the end of a long day.
As you settle into, scout out garage sales and thrift stores for unique pieces. When choosing linens and bedding, go with the colors that draw your eye or just make you feel good.
Arrange your furniture how you want it and display the art that makes you happy — because no one can tell you otherwise.
Consider adding a few plants, too. Even if you don’t have space to garden, indoor plants can brighten up your home and improve your well-being.
THE UGLY TRUTH ABOUT LIVING ALONE
9. Prioritize wellness
When you don’t have anyone else to consider, established habits can start to slip. Maybe you give up on a regular bedtime, skip nutritious meals in favor of snacks, wear the same clothes for 2 days, and finish the whole bottle of wine because, why not?
Doing these things occasionally may not be a big deal, but making a pattern of it probably won’t do you any favors.
Good self-care practices, however, can improve your emotional and physical well-being, and feeling good can make it easier to manage loneliness more productively.
Try these strategies:
Set time aside for meal planning and food preparation to avoid relying on snacks or delivery all the time.
Find a workout buddy if you have a hard time mustering up motivation for regular exercise.
Try meditation to increase your awareness of what you’re feeling from day to day.
Experiment with sleep and wake times to determine what feels most natural for you.
Online meditation options
Read our review of the best online meditation options to find the right fit for you.
10. Find the positives
Living alone can be freeing. You don’t need to get dressed to leave your room or label your snacks with warnings, and you can talk to yourself without worrying who can hear.
The benefits of solo living extend well beyond these immediate pluses, though.
Living alone can:
how to learn to live alone motivational speech by sir sandeep
help boost creativity and imagination
help you find time to recharge
lead to greater personal growth
allow you to focus on passions
11. Get back to nature
Spending time outside doesn’t just get you out of the house, it can also help you feel more connected to the world while relieving stress.
Spend some time outside and really listen to the world around you — whether that’s birdsong, waves, running water, rustling trees. This can strengthen feelings of compassion and kinship toward others on the planet, helping you feel less alone.
12. Reach out for support
Living alone isn’t for everyone. You may not enjoy long-term solitude, and that’s perfectly okay. Acknowledging your needs can help you take steps toward finding a living situation that supports your well-being.
If you’re having a hard time with persistent loneliness or other emotional distress, a therapist can help you navigate these feelings, identify when loneliness might relate to something more serious, such as depression, and explore helpful coping strategies
Evan Ross - How To Live Alone (Lyric Video)
The bottom line
Even if you prefer living on your own, it’s not always easy. You might value personal space but still have moments where you long for human interaction. Times of crisis that make it difficult to connect with others can isolate you and cause further distress.
But don’t forget that even though you live alone, you aren’t truly alone. Your loved ones are only a call or text away — whether you’re sick, sad, or just need to tell someone the largest spider you’ve ever seen has taken up residence in your shower.
First of all , Alone is just a mindset of a person. You're never alone. You always with a person which you love the most and that is YOU.
And if you don't like your own company then you should learn to love yourself first. Making friends or any kind of relation with any person is the easiest thing but loving yourself being alone is the toughest. So as my point of view you should opt for the toughest thing as easy things doesn't last long. Once you start to love your loneliness then trust me you gonna get addicted to this life. The peace you get is worthy of all your struggle. You don't have to deal with much troubles as trouble comes from other people.
Give yourself 30 days, stop using cell phones, stop socializing by deactivating your social accounts , stop eating junk food eat healthy vegan as much as you can as it detoxify your body and don't let negative thoughts comes in your mind , exercise or medidate or do yoga everyday for just 30 mints which is enough for your daily lifestyle , start doing things that you really love which you used to do but because of daily toxic lifestyle you stopped doing, all of the above just keep yourself busy indulge in your favourite activities but don't be lazy sleep all day as it will depress you trust me I did this mistake to sleep around all day being lazy which end up giving me panic attacks.. whatever you do please do in a good way that it will not harm you as well your surrounding people.. treat everyone nicely.
Do not start taking drugs and any addiction to cop with your loneliness.
How can I learn to live alone and be happy?
Spending time alone doesn't have to mean you're lonely. Alone time can be an opportunity to get to know yourself better, improve your mental health, and do things you enjoy.
Science Explains Why Very Intelligent People Prefer To Be Alone
"Humans are social beings, hardwired to be connected to others. At the same time, it's important to learn how to tolerate and even appreciate alone time in extended periods," says Heather Z. Lyons, PhD, a psychologist, and owner of Baltimore Therapy Group in Baltimore, Maryland.
Whether it's voluntary or necessary, here are 10 ways to be happier alone:
1. Develop a relationship with yourself
Being alone gives you the chance to nurture your relationship with yourself. However, it's not always easy to do this.
"Alone time might be difficult for people for different reasons," says Lyons. "Use the discomfort as an opportunity to learn about yourself. Reflect on what comes up for you when you are alone,"
For example, you can do this by thinking or journaling about your values, likes, dislikes, and current emotions.
2. Volunteer
In a large 2020 study conducted in the United Kingdom, participants completed a survey every two years about their overall mental well-being and volunteering habits from 1996 to 2014. Those who volunteered at least once a month reported better mental health than those who volunteered infrequently or never.
You can also do this without leaving home. "You can volunteer to tutor students via video, or donate to a food bank," says Tina B. Tessina, PhD, LMFT, a psychotherapist in Long Beach, California.
Why Do I Live Alone In The Mountains? Answering Some Questions... (Story 62)
3. Learn something new
Take the initiative to absorb and learn new information or practice a skill while alone. "This might include engaging in activities that require executive functioning skills like focus such as reading or creating," says Lyons.
"Consider doing something different than usual: this is a great time to try something new or take a class via video," says Tessina.
4. Exercise
Being active can go a long way towards happiness. "Partaking in a daily, mindful walk, or engaging in some form of physical activity could alleviate anxiety," says Leela R. Magavi, MD, a psychiatrist and regional medical director at Community Psychiatry in Newport Beach, California.
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In a large 2018 study, researchers found that people who worked out regularly experienced 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health in the previous month than those who were inactive.
Learning to live alone after breakup
5. Spend time in nature
A large 2019 study found people who spent at least two hours in nature over a week were much more likely to report greater well-being and health than those who spent no time outside.
Whether the time spent outside was in small increments or big chunks did not affect the results, and benefits peaked at 200 to 300 minutes a week outdoors. Go on a long walk, read in a park, or just sit outside.
6. Practice gratitude
It's all too easy to get caught up focusing on what you don't have.
"I recommend my patients to list things they are thankful for physically, emotionally, and spiritually every morning and evening, especially when lonely during the holidays," says Magavi. "Furthermore, creating gratitude lists and reading these out loud in front of the mirror could help target multiple sensory centers in the brain to maximize the benefits of this activity."
7. Take a break from social media
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While social media may seem like a chance to connect with others, it can actually cause stronger feelings of loneliness.
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A large 2019 study of students aged 18 to 30 years old found an association between social media use and a sense of isolation. For every 10% increase in negative experiences on social media, users reported a 13% average increase in feelings of isolation.
8. Take yourself on a date
While doing something you like may seem obvious, you rarely have the opportunity to do precisely what you want.
"Most people have never had a sustained period of time to think only about their preferences. Create space during your alone time to ask yourself, 'What do I really want to be doing?,'" says Jeni Woodfin, LMFT, a therapist at J. Woodfin Counseling in San Jose, California.
Take yourself to see a movie or peruse a new museum exhibit. Or, if you want to stay in, cook yourself your favorite meal.
9. Meditate
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Meditating not only improves
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, but a 2010 review found the practice can increase the amount of gray matter in the brain. This part of the brain is responsible for perspective-taking and emotional regulation.
Learn to be Alone - Sadhguru
While the idea of meditating may sound intimidating, the actual practice is accessible to anyone. You can try meditating solo or with the help of apps or Youtube videos.
10. Foster or adopt a pet
Yes, technically, this would give you a companion, but a pet can't talk back, so it counts.
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"Having an animal at home with you creates a relationship that can bring joy, laughter, and unexpected challenges that will keep you on your toes," says Woodfin. "Animals give us a reason to get out of bed. If you're struggling to find the motivation to keep moving, having a pet that needs to go for a walk is a win-win situation."
When to see a professional
Over time, if feelings of anxiety and depression persist or develop, professional care may be necessary. According to Woodfin, a few signs you may need to seek professional help include:
Disregarding your appearance or not changing your clothes for multiple days
Consistently declining invites to engage with others
Regularly spending all day in bed or on the couch
Overindulging in alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs as a way to numb or stimulate yourself
"The warning signs of increased isolation, increased drug and/or alcohol use, and a decrease in the care and keeping of your body are serious enough that a call to a mental health professional would be helpful," says Woodfin.
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Insider's takeaway
Spending time alone doesn't have to be a lonely experience. Instead, it can be a time of happiness. Engaging in activities such as nature walks, journaling, and
meditation
can help you enjoy your time and better understand yourself.
However, if you think you may be experiencing anxiety or depression, it's always best to seek help from a mental health professional.
More and more people are living alone today--an estimated 1 in 4 people in the United States are making a home on their own.[1] There are lots of advantages to living alone--no one to fight for the remote, no one to judge you if you want to eat a baloney sandwich in your underwear in the middle of the night--but it can also get lonely when there's no one to come home to. Keep reading to learn how to make the most of living solo.
Part
1
Taking Care of Yourself
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1
Engage with the world. It's too easy to isolate and let negative thoughts run wild, so you need to make the effort, no matter how small, not to cut yourself off from the outside world.[2] Say hello to your neighbors and learn their names. Open your windows and let the light in. Go outside and hang out at a park or a new coffee shop. Don't let your apartment become your entire world.
How I Survive Living Alone || Mayim Bialik
Make sure you are spending time with friends. Set up a book or dinner club so you know you'll have that weekly interaction with other people.[3]
If you don't know anyone in your area, it is vital you make an effort to meet people. If you're into climbing, go to the climbing gym or join a meet up.
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2
Get to know yourself. Living alone gives you plenty of time to explore what makes you tick. Meditate, journal, and experiment with what makes you happy.[4] Learning your unique strengths and applying them to something greater than yourself (using your amazing carpentry skills to help out Habitat for Humanity, for instance) is shown to improve happiness.[5]
Learn what triggers feelings of loneliness. Think about times when loneliness hits you hardest and then make a plan to counter it.[6] Do you feel really bummed when you return to an empty apartment after work or school? Schedule an activity, like going to a Zumba class, that gives you just enough time to get home, change, and head out the door again.
Figure out the best parts of living alone, whether it's drinking straight from the carton, cleaning in your underwear, or peeing with the bathroom door wide open, and indulge.[7]
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3
Adopt a pet. Bringing a furry friend home can relieve the loneliness you may experience living alone. Pets fulfill our natural need for touch and companionship, which can help you manage stress.[8]
Studies show that people with pets are healthier and live longer lives. Having a pet can actually lower your blood pressure.[9]
What Would Happen If You Were Alone Forever? ft. GingerPale
Pets can help give your day-to-day life structure: they must be fed on time, walked, and cared for. This can help you get out of your own head and think about the needs of your pet.[10]
A pet that needs exercise, like a dog, can get you up and moving, improving your own physical health in the process.[11]
Remember that a pet is a long-term commitment, so make sure you choose an animal that fits with your lifestyle. If you're gone most of the day, a dog might not be the best fit. A cat, rabbit, or reptile might be a better choice.
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4
Practice self-discipline. Sure, one of the best things about living alone is that you can wear your sweatpants and ratty t-shirt all day without judgement. But if you slip into a state of apathy and don't practice self-care--if you stop showering, getting dressed, exercising, or eat too much or too little--you can quickly spiral into depression. It's up to you to hold yourself accountable for these things.[12]
Force yourself to get up and get dressed every day, even if you don't plan on going anywhere. Even minimal effort can make a difference when combatting loneliness.
People who make their bed every morning are often more productive, self-disciplined, and feel better about themselves. It's a great way to start your day off on a good foot.[13]
This also means you need to control your vices. If you know you can't buy a bottle of wine without drinking the entire thing, then maybe leave it on the shelf or buy something that comes in a small bottle.[14]
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5
Have a plan for when you get sick. Coming down with the flu when there's not a roommate, spouse, or family member to help take care of you or run to the pharmacy can be a major downside to living alone.[15] Think ahead and keep your medicine cabinet well-stocked with a thermometer, fever and pain relievers (like ibuprofen), nasal decongestant, and cough syrup.[16]
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Have first aid essentials on hand as well, like antibiotic ointment, gauze and band-aids, rubbing alcohol, and pain relievers.[17]
This is another reason to get to know your neighbors--if you're really sick, you can reach out to them to pick up your medication or bring you fluids and chicken noodle soup.
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6
Learn to cook for one. There are tons of cookbooks and websites devoted to learning how to make delicious, dynamic meals for a household of one. You don't need to live off the same meal for five days in a row, nor do you need to get takeout each and every night.[18]
Learn to use your leftovers in creative ways. Turn leftover steak into tacos with some lime, salsa and tortillas, or throw your leftover veggies in with some pasta for an entirely new dish.[19]
Plan your meals at the beginning of the week to make shopping easier. Knowing how you are going to use your food and how much you need will cut down on waste.[20]
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7
Know it's not forever. Just because you're alone now, or have been for a while, it doesn't mean that you always will be. Learning how to make yourself happy, to feel whole and fulfilled on your own, can make you more successful in making and maintaining friendships and relationships.[21]
Part
2
Taking Care of Your Home
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1
Schedule time to clean. It can be easy to let things go when you live alone, whether it's because you assume no one will see the mess or you don't have a partner with whom to split the chores. But a messy living space invites pests and could lead to damage that can become costly to fix later or even cause to you lose your deposit. Schedule small chores throughout the week so they don't build up and overwhelm your weekend. Picking up a little every day will also get you in the habit of maintaining a clean home.[22]
Start with the bathroom. When mold, toilet stains, and mildew build up, they become more difficult to remove with each passing day (not to mention, it's really gross). If you regularly use a little shower spray and toilet bowl cleaner, you will save yourself from a lot of hard work trying to scrub out that black grime between your tiles later.[23]
Hire a cleaning company if you feel overwhelmed. Let the professionals do a deep-clean of your home. Then cleaning will be more an issue of maintaining your environment rather than tackling a huge project.[24]
Clutter also has a detrimental affect on your mental well-being. It is an instant source of major stress and can compound the effects of depression and grief. It can even be linked to unhealthy weight-gain.[25] Keeping things clean will help keep you happy.
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2
Decorate your home to your taste. Your environment has a direct impact on your wellbeing, so taking the time to make your home a place you truly enjoy and feel comfortable.[26] Go ahead and paint a purple accent wall, hang that weird painting, or make it ultra-mod. Whatever makes you feel good. Bonus: You don't have to compromise and accommodate someone else's creepy doll collection.
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If you splurge on a heavy item or decide you want to move your massive dresser across the room, don't injure yourself trying to do it alone. Break down the furniture as much as you can (remove drawers and legs). Don't be afraid to ask for help if something is just too heavy, even if you need to hire some help.[27]
Don't forget to personalize any outside areas you may have, too. Maintaining a yard, starting a garden, or even putting a pot of flowers out on a small patio can all help make the outside of your home feel as special to you as the inside.
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3
Install a safety system. To take care of your valuable items as well as yourself (not just your physical well-being if someone were to break in, but your mental health so you don't worry about it a burglar), take precautions like investing in strong door and window locks. Consider installing a security system (check in with your landlord first if you live in an apartment) if you are really nervous about a break-in. Many wireless systems are even DIY and can be brought with you when you move.[28]
If you decide to get a dog for companionship, she can also provide a great service as a watch dog. You don't need a great-big dog, either--sometimes the smallest pups are the loudest. The noise can be enough to deter someone from breaking in.[29]
Getting to know your neighbors will also help--if they see someone unfamiliar sniffing around your house, they can give you (or the police) a heads up. Or you can arrange to check in on each other if one of you is suspiciously quiet.[30]
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4
Make a plan to deal with repairmen. If you have a plumbing issue and don't work from home, it might be a challenge to schedule a repair. Try to schedule an appointment for either the first or last slot of the day so you may not have to miss work. If you trust your landlord, he or she might be willing to meet the repairman on site, so you don't have to be at home.[31]
Ask people you trust including any local family and friends as well as your neighbors for recommendations and contact info for repairmen they have worked with in the past.
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