Introverts: The Secret to Happiness without Being Lonely
I’ve always been someone who enjoys solitude. I find solace in my own thoughts and ideas rather than socializing with others. Science calls me an introvert.
Recently, I stumbled upon an article on Medium that suggested deleting social media apps to save time. It struck a chord with me as I would rather spend my time writing than scrolling through feeds. However, as I was about to purge my social media, I stumbled upon a subreddit called r/DAE. I came across a post that grabbed my attention. It made me question one of my quirks- Does Anybody Else not get lonely easily?
Initially, I thought it was obvious, but reading through the comments made me feel understood. I realized that I wasn’t alone in my need for solitude. It was reassuring to know that I’m not the only one who prefers to be alone!
“I want to be alone…I just want to be alone!”
Greta Garbo in Grand Hotel
The character portrayed by Greta Garbo in Grand Hotel desired solitude due to her deteriorating career and her involvement in a doomed relationship with a married man. With time, her famous line has become iconic and is now commonly used to express a wish for privacy or seclusion.
I’ve always been an introvert. I’m not shy or socially awkward, in fact, I have been told I can be the life of the party. I just prefer my own company. I’ve always been more interested in my own thoughts and ideas than in talking with others. I’ve always been content to spend time by myself, reading, writing, or just thinking.
Growing up, I was always made to feel like I was doing something wrong. My parents and teachers would always tell me to be more sociable and to make more friends. But I just couldn’t do it. It’s not like I didn’t enjoy being around other people, I just never felt like people contributed much to the world in my head.
What is an Introvert?
As I got older, I started to realize that there was nothing wrong with me. I was just an introvert. Introverts are people who get their energy from being alone, rather than from being around other people.
There are a lot of benefits to being an introvert. For one thing, introverts are often very creative and introspective. They tend to be deep thinkers, and they enjoy spending time alone to process their thoughts and ideas. Introverts are also often very independent and self-sufficient. They don’t need a lot of social interaction to be happy, and they can be perfectly content with their own company.
And there are plenty of other introverts out there who are just as happy as I am.
Introverted Discoveries
In the past, I believed that my happiness relied on socializing and being surrounded by people. However, my perspective changed after I moved to Maryland from Michigan and was arrested for drunk driving. It made me realize that I was mistaken.
I discovered that I didn’t need others to be content. I could find joy in my own company and thoughts. As a result, I began to distance myself from social activities and became more comfortable with solitude. Surprisingly, I felt happier than I had ever felt before.
Pandemic Shut Down, What?
Prior to the pandemic, I preferred staying indoors and unwinding rather than engaging in social activities. Being in my own space has always brought me a sense of comfort, although I am unsure why.
The pandemic did not significantly alter my lifestyle, as I had already begun working from home due to health reasons. In fact, it further solidified my contentment with my introverted tendencies. I had the opportunity to indulge in activities I genuinely enjoy, such as writing, watching films and television shows, and spending quality time with my dogs.
Due to the pandemic, socializing virtually has become more prevalent than living in society. Nowadays, I converse with people from various parts of the country and the world, all from the comfort of my phone and computer. The best part is that I can chat in my pajamas without worrying about being judged based on my appearance and the anxiety I would feel in social situations is much less.
Physical Appearance – Not an Issue
Throughout my life, I’ve always had a larger build. Although I don’t consider myself unattractive, I’ve never been slim, even as a child. Despite my efforts to shed some pounds, I always end up gaining the weight back. This used to bring me down, but I’ve learned to embrace and love my body as it is since embracing my introversion.
Nowadays, I predominantly consume nutritious meals, and I prepare most of my own food. However, if I feel like indulging in a pint of ice cream or a box of Cheez-Its, I do so without any feelings of shame. Accepting my introverted lifestyle has allowed me to feel more comfortable with my own choices and desires.
Home Sweet Hermitage
In December of 2021, I finally bought my own house, and I moved in all by myself. I love it. Whatever I want to do, I can. If I want to be loud or quiet, I choose the volume of the music. I can be as messy or as clean as I want. Finally, I’m free to be what my parents would have called “anti-social”!
My need (not just want) to write again has resurfaced. I have found joy in watching my two dogs play because I am not too worried about the noises that others might hear or the mess that they might make. And most of all, I have found that if I want to take a nap in the middle of an afternoon because work has been particularly stressful, I can and will do so without the need for anyone’s permission and/or approval.
I’m not saying that I’ll never go out again. But for now, I’m perfectly happy staying at home and enjoying my own company. I’ve learned that I don’t need to be around other people to be happy. I can be content with my own thoughts and my own life. I embrace being an introvert.
It’s important for everyone to have some time for themselves. It’s a chance to relax, reflect, and just be. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by social obligations, don’t be afraid to say no. It’s okay to be alone.
In fact, it’s perfectly healthy. So next time you’re feeling the need for some peace and quiet, don’t feel guilty about it. Embrace your solitude and enjoy it!
