The other day I was scrolling through TikTok (as one does), and I came across a video where someone said, “I feel so bad for anyone who had to watch WrestleMania alone this weekend.”

I blinked. Rewatched the video. And all I could think was, “Wait… but that’s how I prefer it.”

Seriously. I watched WrestleMania on my couch, under a cozy blanket, cats (Hamilton and Burr) curled up nearby, snacks in hand, zero small talk, zero stress. It was perfect.

And yet, the internet wants me to feel bad about it?

No, thank you.

If you’re an introvert like me, you’ve probably had moments where your choice to spend time alone raised a few eyebrows. So let’s talk about the difference between being alone and being lonely—because they are not the same thing. Not even close.

Alone vs. Lonely: What People Get Wrong

Let’s break it down:

  • Alone is a physical state. No one else is around.
  • Lonely is an emotional state. You feel disconnected or unseen.

Here’s the truth: Introverts often crave solitude. It’s how we recharge, process, and feel most like ourselves. According to Psychology Today, “solitude is a state of being alone without being lonely and can lead to self-awareness.” And I’d bet that if you’re still reading this, you’ve experienced that exact feeling.

Why Introverts Actually Thrive in Solitude

There’s solid science behind this.

📌 In 2025, a study published by the National Library of Medicine found that introversion itself isn’t linked to loneliness, especially when solitude is intentional and aligned with wellbeing.

📌 Research from Introvert Dear explains that introverts are less motivated by social rewards. So that high-energy party your extroverted friend lives for? That’s not fueling us. That’s draining our battery.

For me, solitude is more than preference—it’s preservation.

What I Do When I’m Alone (and Loving It)

When I’m not creating ADHD and introvert content or directing musicals like West Side Story, you’ll probably find me doing things like:

  • Watching wrestling (solo!)
  • Binging my favorite Marvel or Star Wars movies
  • Journaling or updating one of my digital guidebooks
  • Deep diving into mental health topics
  • Sitting with a glass of Moscato and listening to lo-fi beats

Do I feel lonely? Not at all.

In fact, when I go too long without alone time, I feel scattered, irritable, and disconnected from myself. For me, solitude brings me back to myself.

Introvert enjoying peaceful alone time by a window, smiling and relaxed in solitude, illustrating how being alone doesn't mean being lonely.

Common Misconceptions About Introverts Who Enjoy Being Alone

Let’s clear the air:

1. “You just need to get out more.”
Nope. I need to get in more. That’s how I reset.

2. “Aren’t you lonely?”
Not unless I’m disconnected from myself. Loneliness is about lack of meaningful connection—not about who’s physically around.

3. “Introversion is just a phase.”
Nope again. Introversion is a personality trait backed by neuroscience. This isn’t something I’m growing out of—this is me growing into who I actually am.

Solitude Isn’t Isolation—It’s Strength

Here’s the thing: not all solitude is created equal. A 2025 Psychology Today article found that how you spend your alone time matters. High-functioning introverts often use solitude for reflection, creativity, and rest. But if you’re doom-scrolling to numb the discomfort, that’s a different story.

That’s why I created my free guide: The Introvert’s Escape Plan. It’s filled with self-care strategies for introverts who want to thrive without guilt. No fluff. Just practical, empowering steps to live well.

5 Key Takeaways from This Blog

  1. Being alone ≠ lonely — introverts often thrive in solitude.
  2. Solitude is restorative — it reduces stress and boosts creativity.
  3. Misconceptions are common — but you don’t owe anyone an explanation for loving alone time.
  4. Not all alone time is healthy — focus on intentional solitude that nourishes you.
  5. Introversion is not a flaw — it’s a valid and valuable way of being.

FAQ

Q: Is it normal for introverts to prefer doing things alone, like watching movies or traveling?
A: Yes! Many introverts find solo activities more fulfilling and less mentally draining than social ones.

Q: What if I do feel lonely sometimes?
A: That’s also completely normal. Everyone—introvert or extrovert—needs meaningful connection. The key is quality over quantity.

Q: How do I explain to friends that I need alone time without hurting them?
A: Try saying something like, “I love spending time with you, and I also need alone time to feel like myself. It’s not personal—it’s how I recharge.”

Q: Can introverts be social?
A: Of course. We just need time to recover after socializing. It’s all about energy management.

Q: What’s the best way to embrace my introversion?
A: Start by letting go of guilt. Use tools like The Introvert’s Escape Plan, surround yourself with people who respect your needs, and follow introvert-friendly creators who get it.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing wrong with loving your own company. There’s nothing sad or strange about enjoying WrestleMania alone, eating dinner solo, or spending an entire weekend without speaking to anyone but your cat.

That’s not loneliness.

That’s peace.

So if you’ve ever felt weird for preferring the quiet, this is your sign to stop apologizing. Your solitude is powerful. Your preferences are valid.

And if you ever need a reminder—you’ve got me.

Much love. Good vibes. – Ky