As we go through life, some people naturally grow closer to others, while some start to pull away.

If you’ve noticed someone becoming more withdrawn or even find yourself retreating from the noise of society, you’re not alone. It’s a natural part of life for some people to prioritize solitude or smaller, deeper connections as they age.

But what happens when someone chooses to distance themselves from society? Interestingly, this shift often leads to noticeable changes in their personality and habits.

In this article, we’ll explore nine common traits that tend to develop in those who embrace a more secluded lifestyle as they get older.

Let’s get started.

1) Increased self-reliance

When people choose to distance themselves from society as they age, a notable trait that develops is increased self-reliance.

In essence, they learn to rely primarily on themselves for their needs and desires. This isn’t to say that they shun all outside help, but rather they have an enhanced capacity to handle life’s challenges independently.

This trait is cultivated out of necessity. When you distance yourself, you inevitably face situations that require you to act single-handedly. Over time, this develops into a habit and an integral part of one’s character.

Think about it. When you’re constantly surrounded by others, it’s easy to rely on them for assistance or advice. However, when you step back from society, you’re left with your own resourcefulness and resilience.

Increased self-reliance can be an empowering trait, demonstrating the strength of resilience and independence in the face of life’s challenges.

2) Heightened appreciation for solitude

One of the traits I’ve personally noticed in those who distance themselves from society as they age is a heightened appreciation for solitude.

I remember my grandmother. As she grew older, she preferred spending time in her garden over indulging in the town’s social events. It wasn’t that she didn’t enjoy company, but she found a certain tranquility in her own presence.

She told me once, “When I’m alone, I get to hear my own thoughts, understand them, and sometimes, even surprise myself with my own wisdom.”

This appreciation for solitude doesn’t mean that they’re lonely or sad. It’s more about finding peace and contentment in one’s own company. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with oneself on a deeper level.

3) Strengthened connection with nature

As people distance themselves from society, another trait that usually develops is a strengthened connection with nature.

Research suggests that people who spend significant time in nature experience increased feelings of happiness, well-being and have a more positive outlook on life.

For people who choose solitude over societal interactions, the natural world often becomes a source of solace and inspiration. They find comfort in the rustling leaves, the chirping birds, the flowing rivers – elements that city dwellers often overlook.

This relationship with nature can be incredibly therapeutic, offering a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to find amidst the hustle and bustle of society.

4) Deepened self-awareness

As people distance themselves from society, they often develop a deeper sense of self-awareness.

When you spend less time engaging in social interactions and more time with yourself, you naturally start to reflect more on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This introspection often leads to a greater understanding of oneself.

Self-awareness is about understanding your own needs, desires, failings, habits, and everything else that makes you ‘you’. It’s about knowing what drives you and what holds you back.

In the grand scheme of things, this deepened self-awareness can lead to personal growth and a more fulfilling life experience. It allows individuals to align their actions with their inner values and beliefs, making their life more authentic and satisfying.

5) Enhanced creativity

As individuals distance themselves from society, they often find their creative side flourishing.

When you’re not constantly bombarded with societal norms and expectations, your mind gets the freedom to wander and explore uncharted territories. This environment is often a breeding ground for new ideas and perspectives.

Creativity isn’t restricted to painting, writing, or music. It can also mean coming up with innovative solutions to everyday problems, or seeing the world through a unique lens.

Therefore, distancing oneself from society doesn’t necessarily mean leading a dull life. Instead, it can be a journey of exploration and discovery, revealing a vibrant internal world that’s constantly creating and recreating itself.

6) Greater empathy

One might assume that distancing from society would lead to a disconnect from the emotions and experiences of others. However, the reality is often quite the contrary.

Many who choose solitude over societal interactions develop a greater sense of empathy. Without the constant noise and distractions of society, they have the space to truly listen – to themselves, to others, and to the world around them.

This ability to listen deeply allows them to understand and connect with the experiences and emotions of others at a profound level. They might not be in the heart of social gatherings, but their understanding of human emotions can be far deeper than those constantly surrounded by people.

In essence, their hearts may not always be visible in a crowd, but they are often wide open to the joys and sorrows that life brings.

7) Embracing imperfections

Distancing from society often brings with it a beautiful acceptance of one’s own imperfections.

I recall a time when I took a sabbatical from my busy life and spent a month in solitude. In that quiet, I had no one to impress, no societal standards to meet, and no judgments to fear. It was just me, with all my strengths and weaknesses.

This experience made me realize that the quirks and flaws I had been trying to hide were an integral part of who I was. They made me unique and human. I learned to embrace them, instead of shying away.

8) Increased introspection

Another trait that often develops when people distance themselves from society is increased introspection.

When you spend less time engaging with others, you naturally have more time to reflect on life, your experiences, and your decisions. This introspection often leads to a better understanding of your values, goals, and the kind of life you want to lead.

Introspection can be a powerful tool for personal growth. It allows you to evaluate your actions, learn from your mistakes, and make better decisions in the future.

While distancing yourself from society might seem like stepping away from the world, it could actually be a step closer to understanding yourself and life on a deeper level.

9) Appreciation for simple pleasures

When people distance themselves from society, they often develop a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

Away from the constant hustle and societal pressures, they find joy in the quiet moments – a good book, a serene sunset, a cup of coffee brewed just right. These simple pleasures, often overlooked in the rush of societal life, take center stage and bring immense joy and satisfaction.

This might seem insignificant, but it’s a profound shift in perspective that can significantly enhance the quality of life. It’s about finding contentment in what you have, where you are, and who you are – a lesson that’s more valuable than any societal achievement or recognition.