From Psychologies · Laurena Valette · · 1m 20s
Why some people thrive in solitude
Being alone and feeling lonely are not the same thing. For some, chosen solitude brings wellbeing.
In brief
Being alone and feeling lonely are not the same thing. For some, chosen solitude brings wellbeing. Solitude is beneficial when it's chosen, not forced. The key difference is whether you have the freedom to decide. Originally reported by Psychologies.
Alone is not lonely
Paul spends entire days without speaking to anyone and feels perfectly fine. Being alone and feeling lonely describe completely different experiences.
Choice changes everything
You can feel deeply lonely at a dinner with friends, or perfectly content spending Saturday alone. The difference is whether you chose it.
Research backs it up
Researchers Virginia Thomas and Margarita Azmitia found that chosen solitude linked to better wellbeing, while forced isolation linked to loneliness and distress.
Solitude gives you freedom
Social time requires constant adjustments: listening, responding, waiting your turn. Alone, you can change plans, walk for hours, or stay silent without explaining yourself.
It calms intense emotions
Short periods of solitude can reduce the intensity of strong emotions. Anger fades, but so does overstimulation. Solitude acts like turning down the volume.
But you still need people
Healthy solitude stays flexible. You can want a day alone and crave company the next day. Loving your own company doesn't mean choosing between others and yourself.
The main idea
Solitude is beneficial when it's chosen, not forced. The key difference is whether you have the freedom to decide.
