# Why some people thrive in solitude

> Being alone and feeling lonely are not the same thing. For some, chosen solitude brings wellbeing.
- Title: Why some people thrive in solitude · Psychologies | Shortify
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: solitude, loneliness, mental health, wellbeing, psychology, social connection, autonomy, chosen solitude, emotional regulation, some, people, thrive
- Source: Psychologies — https://psychologies.com/moi/moi-et-les-autres-moi/solitude/Paul-44-ans-Je-peux-passer-une-journee-entiere-sans-parler-a-personne-et-je-ne-me-sens-absolument-pas-seul-641254
- Author: Laurena Valette
- Published: 2026-09-20T18:02:55+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: solitude, loneliness, mental health, wellbeing, psychology, social connection, autonomy, chosen solitude, emotional regulation
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Solitude is beneficial when it's chosen, not forced. The key difference is whether you have the freedom to decide.