Learning to enjoy your own company
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Find hobbies you can do alone.
Learning to like who you is makes it easier to spend time by yourself.
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Begin with minor solo tasks like grocery shopping or buying coffee, then move on to dining out alone or reserving a hotel room.
You may find that others do not notice your solitude and you can develop independence.
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- Take yourself on solo outings, such as a trip to an amusement park, to learn to enjoy your own company.3
Get a pet, such as a dog or cat, to substitute for companionship and keep you occupied.
- It is a lot of responsibility to care for another life; they cannot survive without you.
- One person reported getting a hamster but still feeling empty inside.
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Start taking action on a task regardless of motivation, as action generates motivation.
Motivation does not create action; rather, starting to do something makes you more likely to continue.
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Participate in recurring group events such as fitness sessions, athletic teams, or reading groups to connect with like-minded people.
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Write down things you are grateful for right now, like waking up each morning.
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Get comfortable with solitude and find activities that occupy your time.
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- Immerse yourself in productive activities to preoccupy your time.3