The art of being happy alone: 7 habits happy singles almost always share

Avatar by Justin Brown | November 30, 2024, 9:08 am

Being single doesn’t have to feel like a waiting game for the next relationship. In fact, some of the happiest people you’ll ever meet are those who’ve mastered the art of being alone.

They’re not just surviving solo—they’re thriving, with lives filled with purpose, joy, and self-assuredness.

So, what’s their secret?

It’s not luck or perfect circumstances. It’s habits. Small, intentional choices that build a life where happiness isn’t dependent on anyone else.

Whether you’re single by choice, newly navigating the single life, or just curious how to feel content on your own, these seven habits might be exactly what you need to embrace this chapter of your journey.

1) Embracing solitude is not the same as being lonely

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is equating solitude with loneliness. The truth is, these are two distinct states of being.

When you embrace solitude, you’re choosing to be alone. It’s an opportunity for self-reflection, creativity, and personal growth. This is time invested in understanding oneself and nurturing inner peace.

On the other hand, loneliness is a state of feeling isolated or disconnected, whether you’re physically alone or not. It’s an emotional response that can occur even in a crowd.

Happy singles understand this distinction.

They don’t shy away from spending time alone because they know it doesn’t equate to being lonely. Instead, they use this time to build a stronger relationship with themselves.

2) Cultivating self-love is essential

Self-love isn’t just about accepting yourself—it’s about celebrating who you are. It’s about recognizing your worth and your unique qualities.

You don’t need another person to validate your existence or your importance.

I spent years searching for validation from others, only to realize that true validation comes from within.

When you love yourself, you set the standard for how others should treat you. You also become more capable of offering genuine love to others.

Happy singles understand this fundamental truth.

They don’t seek validation from external sources—instead, they cultivate self-love and celebrate their individuality.

3) Turning pain into personal growth

Experiencing heartbreak can feel like an end, but it’s often a beginning. It’s a potential gateway to profound personal growth and self-discovery.

I’ve had my share of heartbreaks, and I’ve seen how they can become catalysts for transformation when approached with the right mindset and tools.

That’s why I recommend the “Breakup to Breakthrough” masterclass, guided by my good friend Annabel Acton, an expert in navigating emotional terrain.

In this free masterclass, Annabel provides practical tools to process emotions healthily and rebuild self-awareness, resilience, and confidence. It’s a journey of turning pain into empowerment, aligning perfectly with the theme of personal growth.

One impactful exercise in the masterclass is the “Crossroads of Heartbreak” visualization, which guides you to explore different paths and choose the one leading to healing and possibility.

This 15-minute session can provide quick and meaningful insights, enabling you to move on from heartbreak with strength and clarity.

4) Learning to let go is a journey, not a destination

Letting go is often easier said than done. It’s not a switch you can flip overnight—it’s a process of acceptance, forgiveness, and growth.

When you hold on to past hurts or failed relationships, you inadvertently give them power over your present happiness. This can hinder your ability to fully enjoy the gift of solitude and the joy of being single.

After going through my own heartbreaks and taking the journey through the “Breakup to Breakthrough” masterclass, I learned that letting go requires patience and compassion towards oneself.

It’s not about forgetting or erasing memories but about releasing their power over you.

Happy singles understand this. They know that letting go isn’t about denying or suppressing emotions—it’s about:

  • Acknowledging them
  • Understanding them
  • Making the conscious decision to move forward

Are you ready to embark on your own journey of letting go?

5) Choosing to be single is a form of self-empowerment

Deciding to remain single may seem contrary to societal norms, but remember, it’s your life, not society’s.

Choosing to be single isn’t about rejecting love or relationships—it’s about embracing the possibility of self-discovery and independence.

In a world that often prioritizes coupledom, choosing to be single can be a radical act of self-empowerment. It allows you the freedom to explore your interests, passions, and dreams without the constraints of compromising for a partner.

Happy singles see singleness not as a deficit but as an opportunity for self-growth and self-realization.

They understand that their worth is not determined by their relationship status but by their actions, attitudes, and contributions to the world.

Choosing to be single is choosing self-empowerment. You are enough, just as you are.

6) Investing in personal growth is a lifelong commitment

Personal growth isn’t a destination—it’s a lifelong journey. It’s about continuously seeking to understand yourself better, challenging your limiting beliefs, and expanding your horizons.

Happy singles see every moment—whether it’s a moment of joy or a moment of sorrow—as an opportunity to learn and grow.

They understand that personal growth is not just about becoming better—it’s about becoming more ‘you’.

Reading books, attending workshops, practicing mindfulness, or taking a masterclass—these are just a few ways you can consciously invest in your personal growth.

This consistent investment can lead to increased self-awareness, resilience, and a sense of fulfillment.

By investing in your personal growth, you are not only enhancing your life but also enriching your relationship with yourself.

7) Connecting with others doesn’t require a romantic relationship

Being single doesn’t mean being isolated. Connection comes in many forms, not just romantic.

Friendships, family relationships, and communities can provide deep and meaningful connections that enrich our lives.

I’ve found that being single has allowed me to cultivate stronger bonds with people around me—bonds based on mutual respect, empathy, and shared experiences rather than romantic attachment.

Interestingly, research shows that single people often have richer social lives than couples.

This is because happy singles actively seek out and nurture connections in their lives, understanding that these relationships contribute to their happiness.

Embracing the art of being happy alone

Happiness doesn’t come from a relationship status—it comes from within.

By adopting these seven habits, you’re not just learning to enjoy being single; you’re building a foundation for a fulfilling life, whether you remain single or eventually find a partner.

The truth is, when you’re happy alone, you’re no longer waiting for someone else to complete you.

You’re whole, confident, and living a life that feels authentically yours. And that’s the real art of being happy alone—finding peace and joy in your own company, while knowing the best is always yet to come.

If you want to delve deeper into your journey of self-discovery and healing from heartbreaks, I highly recommend the free “Breakup to Breakthrough” masterclass with Annabel Acton.

This masterclass provides practical tools to turn pain into empowerment and foster resilience in the face of emotional challenges.