How to Enjoy Alone Time Without Feeling Lonely

How to Enjoy Alone Time Without Feeling Lonely - Photo by Nik on Unsplash

There’s something special about taking a break just for yourself. Today, for example, I treated myself to a little snack: triple cream brie and kombucha. Living in Australia, the cheese brands are different from what you’d find in France, but the feeling is the same. It’s my own version of comfort—a moment to recharge, reflect, and simply enjoy being present.

This isn’t really about cheese, though. It’s about creating small rituals of comfort, moments where you can relax and let go. Even if cheese isn’t the healthiest food, these moments of calm are what matter. I love cheese, but what I really love is the peace that comes with these little breaks.

Usually, I don’t talk or film myself during these times. I just enjoy the moment. Sometimes I use the time to learn something new, maybe watch a training video, but more often I read on my Kindle or just think. I let my mind wander over problems I need to solve, searching for real solutions. These are moments that recharge me, mentally and emotionally. Afterward, I feel like my batteries are full again.

You can have these moments anywhere—at home, in a bar, at a restaurant, or even in the mountains. Right now, I’m actually in a hotel, but it feels like home for the moment. The important thing is to carve out time for yourself, whether it’s half an hour a few times a week or a whole weekend once a month.

How to Enjoy Alone Time Without Feeling Lonely - Photo by John Lord Vicente on Unsplash

Bill Gates used to do something similar with his “Think Weeks.” He would disappear to a cabin, completely cut off from everyone, and spend a week reading, thinking, and writing. No one knew where he was, not even his wife. He came back with new ideas and clarity. Of course, he had the resources to make it comfortable, but the real value was in the solitude and focus.

I’ve done my own version of this—hermit weekends. Sometimes it’s just one night, but it’s enough to get a lot done. I’ve created entire courses and published hours of video thanks to these focused retreats. The key is to disconnect from all the noise: no computer, no phone, just books, a notebook, and a pen. You return to the basics and rediscover the present moment.

We’re so used to constant information that we forget how to just be. That’s why I suggest you try this. Take a little time for yourself, even if it’s just with some olive bread and your favorite treat. It changes everything. These moments help you step back and ask yourself if you’re really living the life you want, or just drifting along by habit.

Life is short. Sometimes we wake up and realize years have passed without really choosing our path. Taking time for yourself is a way to check in, to see if you’re on the right track, or if it’s time to make a change. It’s a kind of personal review, a chance to make sure you’re living with intention.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
— Anne Lamott

“Solitude is where I place my chaos to rest and awaken my inner peace.”
— Nikki Rowe

How to Enjoy Alone Time Without Feeling Lonely - Photo by Eamonn Wang on Unsplash

Key Takeaways

• Take regular breaks just for yourself, even if it’s only half an hour.
• Use these moments to relax, reflect, and recharge.
• Disconnect from screens and distractions; focus on being present.
• Ask yourself if you’re living the life you want, or just following old habits.

Action Steps

• Schedule a “date” with yourself this week.
• Try a hermit weekend or even just a few hours alone with a book and a snack.
• Reflect on your current path and make changes if needed.

Reflection

• When was the last time you truly spent time alone, just for you?
• Are you living by choice, or by default?
• What small ritual could you start to reconnect with yourself?