As you get older, you might start to feel like spending time alone beats any company you might keep.
It’s not that you’re anti-social, as such, you just gravitate towards solitude more often than not, and that’s okay. Assuming you don’t feel isolated and disconnected from the world around you, there’s nothing wrong with spending time on your own if that’s what you prefer. Here are some indicators that you’re becoming a bit of a hermit — by choice!
1. Your idea of a great night involves your couch and no one else.
These days, the thought of a packed bar or noisy restaurant doesn’t hold the same appeal as a cosy evening at home. You’ve got your favourite spot on the couch, a good show or book, and you’re perfectly content. It’s the ultimate setup for relaxation, with zero social pressure.
2. You actively avoid answering phone calls.
If the phone rings, and you immediately think, “Couldn’t this be a text instead?” you might be entering hermit territory. You prefer communication on your own terms, without the spontaneity of a ringing phone. Peace and quiet feel a lot better than small talk.
3. You’ve become selective about who you spend time with.
Instead of keeping a wide social circle, you focus on a few close friends or family members who truly get you. The days of casual hangouts with acquaintances are mostly behind you. You prioritise connections that actually mean something to you over just filling up your calendar.
4. Running errands feels like enough social activity for the day.
Source: Unsplash A trip to the grocery store or the post office can feel like you’ve fulfilled your social quota. After that, it’s straight back to the comfort of home. Getting things done and avoiding crowds feels like a double win.
5. You’ve perfected the art of saying “no.”
Invites to big events or large gatherings get a polite decline, and you feel zero guilt about it. Saying “no” means more time for the things that actually bring you joy. You know what you like, and you stick to it.
6. You love ordering everything online.
From groceries to clothes, if it can be delivered, you’re all in. The thrill of packages showing up at your door beats crowded stores any day. With online shopping, there’s no need to leave the house, and that suits you perfectly.
7. You’ve embraced solo hobbies.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s knitting, reading, painting, or cooking, your hobbies are things you enjoy alone. These activities bring you peace and a sense of fulfilment without anyone else around. They’re your perfect escape from the world.
8. You prefer solo holidays (or just a staycation).
Travelling alone or staying home for a “holiday” is your idea of a good time. No group activities or packed itineraries, just doing exactly what you want. It’s the ultimate form of relaxation, with no need to accommodate anyone else.
9. You find excuses to avoid leaving the house.
Rainy weather, a new book, or just wanting to relax are all good enough reasons to stay home. You’re a master at making the indoors feel like the best place to be. A cosy night in beats any social plan out.
10. You treasure your daily routines.
Your days have a comfortable rhythm, and you enjoy the little routines you’ve created for yourself. Predictability feels good, and there’s something deeply satisfying about a day that goes exactly as planned. Routines bring a sense of calm and comfort.
11. People have stopped inviting you to things (and you’re fine with it).
Friends may have caught on that you’re not likely to join, and the invites have become fewer – but that’s okay. You’re happy for them to go have a good time while you relax in your own space. You’re content, and that’s what matters.
12. You genuinely look forward to your alone time.
Solitude isn’t something you tolerate; it’s something you crave and protect. Those quiet moments by yourself are essential to your happiness. Alone time feels rejuvenating, like hitting a reset button for your mind and soul.
13. You get overwhelmed by busy or noisy environments.
Big crowds, loud music, and bustling places just don’t have the same appeal anymore. They feel overstimulating, and you prefer somewhere calm and quiet. Home has become your sanctuary from the noise of the outside world.
14. You have no fear of missing out.
FOMO is a distant memory, and you’re more than okay with it. You don’t feel the need to be everywhere or try every new thing. Instead, you’re fully content with your choice to be exactly where you are.
15. Your pets (or plants) have become your trusted companions.
Whether it’s your dog, cat, or even a beloved houseplant, these companions bring you joy. They don’t need conversations or plans, just your quiet company. Spending time with them feels comforting and just right for your low-key lifestyle.
16. You’re protective of your personal space.
Home is your haven, and you’re selective about who gets to share it with you. Personal space feels more valuable now, and you guard it carefully. Inviting someone into your space feels meaningful, not just casual.
17. You find most social situations exhausting.
After spending time with other people, you often feel drained and need time to recharge. Socialising doesn’t come as easily as it used to, and alone time feels more refreshing. It’s not that you dislike people – you just prefer peace and quiet.
18. You genuinely love your own company.
At the end of the day, you’re your own best company, and that’s a wonderful thing. You’re content, fulfilled, and happy in your own space. There’s something empowering about enjoying your own presence and creating a life that feels right for you.
