There is a big difference between being alone and in feeling the feeling of being lonely. A ‘loner’ will prefer to spend time alone, but they rarely feel lonely.
Being friends with a loner is not something that everyone gets the chance to experience. They choose their friends carefully, and are wise about who they open their inner thoughts and feelings with.
So what makes a person a loner? Here are 6 characteristics these often deep and misunderstood people share:
1. Loyalty
You most likely will not see them hanging out with a large group of people or take part in any wide social circle. They keep their circle small and only invest time in real and meaningful friendships. Loyalty is their virtue, and if you have a friend who likes spending time alone, you can be sure that they’ll always have your back. No matter what!
2. Open-mindedness
Just because they prefer being alone most of the time doesn’t automatically mean that they are not open-minded and interested in new and exciting things. You might actually be surprised by how adventurous they are. The fact is, they just enjoy spending time alone replenishing before engaging in most social activities. But they are often real thrill-seekers, just like you!
3. Level-headedness
Since they love being alone, they have plenty of time to reflect and contemplate about life. This allows them to develop a stronger sense of self than others, and causes them to become more confident and comfortable with themselves. They consider time spent alone as a means to recharge.
4. Self-awareness
Many people choose to ignore their thoughts and emotions, and also the results of thinking either positively or negatively. Loners on the other hand are aware of the results of the ways of thinking that they choose; a piece of wisdom only learned by those who have spent a lot of time in deep personal reflection.
As they know themselves well, this enables them to know others well. While everyone has times of negative and/or depressing thoughts, loners are able to choose to stay in their hearts, maintain a positive attitude and to keep a positive outlook on life.
5. They understand the value of time; both yours and theirs.
They have a deeper understanding of the value of time. It is of utmost importance to them, as they understand we all have a limited amount of time on this Earth, so it needs to be spent in the best way possible. Efficiency and time management come easily to them as they are adept in choosing what is worth investing time in and what is not.
6. They set and maintain strong boundaries.
All that time spent alone gives loners a clear view of what inspires them; what works for them, as well as what doesn’t. They set these healthy and strong boundaries and work on maintaining them on a daily basis. These boundaries help them in decision-making, especially when it comes to deciding if something or someone is worth investing their energy in.
Some studies have found that these people can be more likely to achieve success than others. Which is no surprise, since enjoying moments of tranquillity with themselves helps lead to and produce new ideas, and also boosts one’s creativity.
Below are ten reasons why people who love spending time alone are more likely to be successful:
• They have better memories (solitude gives them the right perspective).
• They are relieved from anxiety (spending time alone helps rid their minds of negative thoughts).
• They understand who they are.
• They are more creative (day-to-day distractions affect our thoughts and prevent them from getting out of the box).
• They are more focused, studies show.
• They have better relationships (spending time alone helps understand yourself better and identify the relationships that work for you).
• They make smarter decisions.
• They can boost their productivity by spending time alone and thinking clearly.
• They cherish the simple things in life.
• They manage problems effectively.
