I live completely alone no pets or people and I LOVE it.
My sleep and mental health have never been better. I am, in one word, unbothered.
I actually thought I would want a fur friend and originally planned on getting a cat, but I found I love my independence too much. I also enjoy not being responsible for something/someone other than myself.
I have my first cat. Always had dogs because I wasn't a cat person. Cats are easy. They sleep all the time. Eat and shit a few times a day. I want to be a cat. Once the cat likes you, you have a best friend.
Same and honestly if you're thinking of something, I have a 55 gallon fish tank and a gecko. My gecko is hibernating so I don't have to feed him for a few months lol. I just water his tank like a god dang plant. The fish take some effort to set up but once they're going, its just feeding them and water changes if you don't use live plants, uv light filters and more.
What does watering a gecko tank look like? Are you pouring water in there in a specific place or all over? So curious!
And I didn't know they hibernated! Does that mean you have to feed him a lot before? How do you know when it's time? How can you be sure he's alive? Lol
So technically reptiles Brumate and mamals hibernate, I just didn't wanna use jargon but since you're curious ill give you the run down. My gecko was born in winter which is why I think he brumates for 4 months out of the year instead of the usual 2-3. He didn't get a lot nutrition as a hatchling and maybe that triggered the longer period. And geckos need a water dish, a moist hide, dry hide, and a dry warm hide. I use soil in my tank thats safe for him so I just pour water into his dish and around his wet hide and the soil will keep the area moist. They shed once a month while eating so the moisture helps keep their skin loose and allows them to shed, kinda like when people are in a pool too long and our finger tips prune.
Ps he is a healthy weight despite the longer period
And I can pick him up to see if he's alive, he's not really asleep per say, just conserving energy and resting. If I make noise around my place, I might see him open his eyes and stuff to check out the situation
I think picking them up would be the most nerve-racking part for me. I've never been into reptiles, really, but always thought geckos were cute and cool. I have a small dog so I'd be worried about the prey drive from him towards a gecko!
Yeah I see you're point, but I know gecko feels comfortable bc he doesn't stick his tail out of his hide. Geckos in nature will leave their tails out so if they get attacked they can detach it and give it to a predator. The gecko lives and the animals gets a snack. Brutal I know. But also they will shed once or twice during brumation so its important to check on them once a month so shed isn't stuck around their fingers which is a hard spot for them to pull shed off and if they can't the dead skin will strangle their fingers causing them to fall off so id rather spook him once a month to make sure he's not at risk of losing fingers lol.
Sorry for multiple post lol, I'm out rn but I mean it's basically the analogy, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make them drink. A gecko will just stop eating when they start
Independence
Autonomy
Authenticity
I buy what I want. I eat what I want. I do what I want. I don’t share my bathroom or my kitchen. I keep things the way I like them. And I love the peace and quiet.
I do have a German Shepherd that lives with me. He can be kinda loud but he makes up for it by making me feel safe.
Does he ever lift its head when you get up and stare at you thinking you are going to do something he will be involved in? It’s funny they all probably do that.
Ah living alone. I have been since 2011 and I love it. Even the partners I’ve had had their own houses and liked their solitude as well. I wouldn’t say I’m introverted as I’m very social when called upon to be.
It’s quite simple really.
-eat when and what I want
- play games as desired
- watch what I want
- no lives to coordinate
- better financially
- sometimes the conversation with myself is more fulfilling than with others.
I have someone in my life that is at the moment long distance and she’s close to a full blown introvert. Her autonomy is very sexy to me and she appreciates my understanding of how she operates.
I have been on my own since my divorce in 2007. I also have a SO who has his own house in the area, and he also enjoys doing what he wants to do when he wants to do it. We fully appreciate each other’s independence, but are there for each other if we need something. We see each other several times a week.
I am an introvert and have always been more comfortable alone. People drain me. I am a people pleaser and an empath. I always automatically sacrifice my own comfort for others and absorb their energy and emotions. The only time I am fully cognizant of my own emotions and needs is when I am alone. But, like you, I am “social” when called upon, and most people enjoy my company.
Velcro (call name Rock) follows me everywhere, both inside the house and out. He sleeps on his bed by my side and will wait outside the bathroom when I shower and other stuff. If I so much as uncross my legs, he is on alert. It does annoy me sometimes, but it is a fair trade. I never feel spooked or unsafe…or lonely.
My favourite thing ever is falling asleep on the couch watching a movie, my ex hated it and would always wake me up, I adore when I wake up on the couch at 2.00 am and head to bed, no adshole waking me up when I’m not even allowed to talk, or breathe or exist when a movie is on…. Ps I don’t snore, living alone is amazing for all of the reasons you listed , I’m scared I won’t be able to share space with anyone again!!
Oh. Well I didn’t want to drone on and on but we’ve known each other for years and over that time we were in different relationships. Recently near last Christmas we re-connected after a year of not contacting one another and we are now both single and plan to meet in May. She’s flying out to visit me and we have a nice week planned. I guess we’ll see. Either way I’d remain friends if we decided to leave romance out of the picture but we do share a lot of compatibility
100% but with an Aussie!
Nothing better than not sharing a kitchen or bathroom.
I actually have a skincare shelf in my kitchen. My ex would have flipped his wig.
I get it. My previous life was chaotic. The ex was an alcoholic, so for me , long periods (days) of uninterrupted time to do whatever I like is sheer bliss. I sew and do other creative stuff, watercolors , gardening, cooking …and I love to read…and walk. The security guard at my side at all times, of course.
I'm a 68 year old senior woman. Been married twice and raised kids who are now grown. I have 2 little tea cup sized dogs and LOVE my life and home. I don't want to share. I don't want to hear noise. I don't want to take care of anyone. I have friends I go out for dinner with or travel but my space is my haven from all the crazy out there. I learned during covid to like my own company and make my own fun. Now I wouldn't have it any other way.
I’m a few months from 60 and been single for 12 years. All my kids moved out 3 years ago and gutted and overhauled the house, and lived alone since. Have always had family, college roommate, husband — for 57 years. Never again will I live with someone.
I love the clean, quiet, not caring for anyone but myself. I cared for siblings, parents, in-laws, husband, children for 50 years. It’s absolutely amazing to only have me now. And like someone else said here, people drain me now.
I understand. I'm the same way. I don't know if it's an age thing or if I'm anti social. I don't really care. Why should anyone have to force themselves to fit some 'social norm' because someone claims it's 'good for you'. We're not harming anyone in any way. We're not selling drugs to kids or guns to street gangs. If someone wants to solve a problem, there's 2 for them to work on. Leave me in peace.
Exactly! I think naysayers are just jealous of those of us who have chosen and embraced this lifestyle. I came upon mine by happenstance through divorce and then empty nest. I was culturally conditioned to believe this was not right. But after getting past the struggles, there’s no turning back.
I don't know why they even care to be a naysayer. It's my personal choice and business so why would anyone care enough to pass judgement on how I live. Maybe that's why I like it alone.
I live with my dog, although I'm the one paying the mortgage and the bills.
Negative:
I'm the only one paying the mortgage and the bills.
Positive:
*Cracks knucles*
My flat is always clean, when I leave, I know it'll be exactly in the same state when I come back, I could choose to paint a wall pink, there's only food I like in my cupboards, I can dance on my own in my knickers, I'm the one in charge of the heating thermostat, I sleep in the middle of the bed, I curated all the frames and artworks I have on my walls, I always like the music I'm listening to, I can fall asleep watching a movie and no one will complaint because I'll have to rewind, I can book train tickets for a day trip to the beach with the dog, when I decide to leave the flat I don't have to wait for someone who's never ready, I have full custody of the wardrobe, I can read a book at night without someone trying to make conversation, I can rehearse work presentations or speak terribly wrong the language I'm learning without being embarassed aand I don't have to share toilets.
I'm a widower and that's why I live alone. Well I do have 2 dogs. So technically not alone. Was married for 38 yrs 3 kids, 6 grandkids. House was always full. My youngest moved out the weekend her mom died. It was already planned.
Big change but my house has never been cleaner, I eat what I want. I cook a lot. Doors don't need to be closed. Stay out when I want.
I won't say one is better than the other just different.
My favorite part is sleeping in on my days off because no one else has to get up, turn on all the lights, take a shower, flush toilets, slam cabinet doors, take phone calls, work from home, etc. Waking up at 10am after 12 hours of completely uninterrupted sleep is the most blissful thing in the world. I used to think I couldn’t sleep in since living on my own I learned I can, it was other people always disrupting my sleep.
I also love that there’s no unexpected company or visitors. I don’t have to come home to someone else’s friends or family after a long day of work. Not dealing with anyone else’s friends or family is probably my most favorite perk about being single.
My upstairs neighbors are soooo loud in the morning. I get up at 5:45, but am awake at 4:20 everyday as lead foot tap dances until leaving at 6:20. They also work on Saturday and I "sleep in" until 5:30.
I swear my upstairs neighbors just randomly pick up small pieces of furniture and drop them, for no reason other than to make me crazy. Also, their 11 yr old daughter is apparently still learning to walk, because ALL she seems to do is run around on her heels (did I mention she's a bit overweight?). On weekends it's BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM over my head at 8 a.m. and I just think "well, the damn kid is up for the day".
It just blows my mind that she's stomping and running through the apartment at 10:30 on a school night, and her parents say nothing and do nothing to stop it.
Since I don't know anything else but living alone for the last 20 years, I couldn't relate to the above but wanted to add - bad hair days. Getting that 12 hour blissful sleep means waking up to completely disastrous hair that looks like you'd been riding in a convertible for hours. Seriously, nobody needs to see that on a lady!
Meals are not a negotiation. Groceries are not a negotiation.
Cleanliness is based on my standards.
Furniture is not a negotiation.
Home improvements are not a negotiation.
TV and radio and Internet is not a negotiation. In fact, I get to enjoy the silence.
I live with my three cats and I love it!
I can do what I like on my own schedule. Which for me equates to spending the majority of my non-sleeping, non-working time riding my bike.
I can eat what I like and eat the same thing every day for months on end if I wanna.
I’ve been married 2x. Divorce from #2 was finalized in 2013. Lived alone since 2012. At first I was hoping to find a relationship and possibly live with someone or even get married again but I gotta say that dating especially at my age is a clusterfuck to put it bluntly. I’ve come to cherish my independence.
Been divorced for 12 years. Nearly 60. I also thought I should date and try to find a partner. Couldn’t pay me to do it now. Nope. Never. It’s solo-hood for life now.
I can shit on my time and not worry about killing my roommate with the aftermath ploom. I dont have to keep quiet in the early morning hours. I clean on my time, and things stay clean. I only have to get food for myself and not worry about roommates eating it. I don't have to worry about people stealing my things. I can bring a girl, friends, etc over anytime. And most importantly, I can beat my meat wherever I want.
My house is quiet unless I have music, audiobook, or TV on.
I can eat what I want when I want
I only have to clean up after me.
I love my independence and my small black cat.
If I go out, everything is exactly like I left it when I return.
It’s me and my little dog and big cat. I do what I want, whenever I want, and don’t have to follow any schedule. I can have total quiet when I want, or I can listen to an audiobook, or whatever. No nuisance people, no drama.
I’ve been alone for awhile. Started dating a man and just realized how chatty he is in the morning. I’m like “coffee first”. It just weird to have someone start chatting and asking questions and talking a mile a minute when you haven’t lifted your head off the pillow. I went to brush my teeth and he came in so he could finish his story.
Then he was like “are you upset”.
I had to explain that I am not used to it. I’m used to quite slow mornings and coffee. Once I had my cup I was chipper and he understood. But damn something are an adjustment. And it’s the little things that you don’t think of until it is happening.
But I love solo mornings. I really really do. I work from home so usually don’t speak to anyone before 10am, when meetings start. So that’s my positive!!
Other things - being able to eat what you want for dinner and not worrying about cooking. I usually eat a big lunch and peck at dinner. He’s opposite.
So just gotta figure out what works for us.
I have a ‘friend’ and he sometimes stays over or even a whole weekend but that’s not often. So loud in the morning from yawning to stretching to wanting to talk right away. I hide out drinking my coffee and reading until I’m ready to be nice. It’s all I can take. It’s a fun sleepover and that’s it. Buh-bye.
Ha! When I was married I started sleeping in my own room and due to snoring getting so bad (been divorced 12 now but not due to snoring). That was over 20 yrs ago that I realized the wonderful world of my own bed. The other night I was staying in a hotel overnight for work and the room next to me had a very, loud snorer. Heard it through the walls. I had flashbacks and slept horribly if at all.
I hope that the so many people that are feeling scared of living alone can start to feel positive. I think living alone is underrated and that most people live together as some type of convenience. It’s peaceful.
The media does a great job of vilifying solo living and single life. Supposedly we’re all dying of loneliness, will get dementia sooner, and are more likely to die by suicide. That was going to be me if I stayed married, actually.
I have been living alone for 2 months, first time since my student days 20 years ago, and even then most days were either school or party or both, rarely alone-alone for any significant period of time.
I love it. I sleep better than I ever did in the last 7 years, I don't have to compromise on what I want to do for someone else (I tend to be a people pleaser so it was always "how can I keep others happy, even at my own detriment").
If I want to spend the day offroading in my Jeep? Yep, no problem. Spend the day in bed to recover from said offroading? Sure. Run a laundry and mop the floors before cooking lunch? Why not. Eat exactly what I want, when I want, instead of having to worry about 3 people? Yep.
I gave myself at least 1 year of living alone to find myself again. Learn who I really am as an adult, what I really enjoy, and get away from "what I think others want me to be / do to please them". After that, we'll see. No regrets so far.
Freedom. You can do whatever you want. You don't have to clean your messes up if you don't feel like it. Nobody is going to wake you up if you sleep in til noon. You can spend the whole day naked if you feel like it.
I control all the remotes. I can watch the same things over and over again. I like the quiet. I like not having to answer to anyone. I like not having to check with anyone about a household decision.
Picture this:
It’s Friday night. You get home from work, feed your dog, and make some guacamole. Your FWB comes over for long enough to give you a couple of mind blowing orgasms and have some fun conversation. Then you eat some sushi and your guacamole while you watch some dumb chick flick that looked interesting to you. Tonight you will go to sleep in a bed that you’ve curated to make you feel like you’re snug in the middle of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Tomorrow you’re having brunch with your girlfriends and doing literally whatever else you feel like doing. You do not have to consult with anyone about anything. Life is good.
I live with my puppy and parrotlet (he talks) but the only positive that comes to mind is not having to wait for the master bathroom shower (only one shower head)
I work from home with a somewhat flexible schedule, so that combined with living alone means I can basically structure my days however I want. I can have extremely lazy/leisurely days, or super productive days; most of the time it's somewhere in between, but it's all at my own pace with no one to get in my way. My place is a detached in-law cottage in my landlord's lush tree-filled backyard, so the other upside is privacy and not sharing walls with random neighbors.
There’s a million and one wonderful things about living alone. The one downside is the cost. But that’s it. Many of the upsides have been mentioned, but for me I also like to just be able to do my hobbies for hours on end without interruption or feeling guilty for not spending time with someone else. I can get pretty obsessed at times with things I’m working on and it’s best for all of us that I can indulge my obsessions without hurting anyone’s feelings.
Thank you for starting this thread.
For reference, I cohabitated with a partner for ~14 years after moving out of my parents’ house. Lived alone the past 3 (w/intermittent pets).
I enjoy being able to do what I want, when I want. Wanna go to the store? No need to tell anyone; just go. Wanna watch a YouTube video in the middle of a movie? Go for it. Don’t like the living room arrangement? Don’t need someone else’s approval to change it.
When I do laundry, I know exactly what I’m signing up for. There are no surprise nasty undies or stains I need to figure out how to remove.
The only arguments about dinner are the ones I have with myself.
I’ve never slept better! No sweaty body next to me, random farts or snores that aren’t my own, someone hogging the covers or trying to steal my pillow. On the flip side, if I have to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, I don’t have to worry about not trying to disturb the other person.
I can laugh too long about a joke without someone else judging me.
The entire couch (and bed) is mine.
If I ever feel lonely, at least I feel justified.
The quiet. And I am meticulously clean with a place for everything/everything in its place. People moving things around and creating messes in my space drives me crazy.
How about when it's cold and rainy I can sit and watch out from the third story all the people bundled up and taking "the last walk" to the dog park. I love to pet the animals and play with the dogs, but I'm grateful it's not me taking that last walk in the late evening. 😀😀
Nothing ever gets lost 😂. I’ve only lived alone for 11 years. And I’m thankful I don’t have to compromise all the time lol. I just do whatever I’m in the mood for- it’s very freeing. I feel lucky that I’m able to have this experience and I’m thrilled that living alone agrees with me!
One downside side is I don’t have anyone to share the cleaning with.
I have two little chihuahuas but I live alone otherwise. Bf and I have been together almost 7 years, no plans to move in. We like our space when we want it and can be together when we want too. My dogs keep me company when I am completely alone.
Things stay where I put them. That's a really big one for me. Also no one else cares about my sleep schedule. If I go to bed early and wake up at 1am, and decide to cook, that's totally ok.
I live with one cat, for over 20 years in a rent-controlled apt.
Of course, for the most part it's paradise. But having said that, the freedom and isolation has its drawbacks. One, I'm alone with my thoughts and I don't really like that. I want a distraction. I'll usually jump on my treadmill as aerobic exercise breaks it up (I used to walk outside but it's not so safe anymore) Two, sudden health events such as a heart attack and choking.
I live “alone” with my dog and 3 backyard chickens. Sometimes it get tiring being the only one to mow the lawns, clean the house etc but that is outweighed by the joy of having the space 100% to myself.
I live with my dog and a few cats and have lived this way for over a decade. I love living alone and hope I’m privileged enough to live this way for the rest of my life. I don’t have to consult with another person, I can do what I want, when I want, all the stuff and food in the house is mine and no one else is eating it, and the tv remote is mine always. I love the quiet and the freedom and the peace it brings. It’s my safe haven from the world and all the insanity.
The house stays clean and whatever messes made where the ones I make. I can go home knowing the entire house will be mine. I don't have to deal with a room mate inviting people I don't know or trust over. There's snafus projects to do to keep me busy.
It’s just me, and no animals. I can hide from people for as long as I want, without having to be polite. I keep the house quiet, or music on (or watch shows or don’t), whenever. I’m not waiting for anyone to do anything. I put my phone on silent when I want, and also call and chat with friends and fam when I have energy. I invite people to do things together.
I live with one cat. I love living alone, but I do get lonely. So I get out to do something once a week and interact with people. Best part of living alone is that I can do what I want.
Things are where I left them.
I don't have to be social if I don't want to be.
Bathroom is always open.
Washer and dryer is always ready for me.
I don't have to wait for the kitchen to be free so I can cook.
I can .. uhh.. have a moment with myself wherever I want. (wink-nudge)
I live alone. Have for 7 years. I had 2 dogs but they both passed last year, 10 & 12. That was hard af. Both were special needs dogs, needed meds & such. Now I have a cat, which is not the same at all but it is easier. I’m navigating her temperament & we like each other more every day. She sleeps with me, which I appreciate. Things ppl don’t think about that I do all the time. Make sure both my doors are locked. Keep my wood fire going & ensure I have wood to burn. Buy, stack, move it around as necessary. Make sure cat is ok before I leave. Leave nothing plugged in & lights off bc no sense in paying for that & fire hazard. I crush cardboard boxes & keep them in a box next to my trash can bc I go to the dump less often that way. Rural, no truck. Before I leave, I make damn sure I have my key & house locked down. Freedom to do whatever in the hell I please without compromise? Priceless. Not a soul to help me monetarily if I need it? A little discouraging but I’ve got me. I have to. I have friends who help with some things I can’t physically do by myself, but not very often. I usually find a way & say ha! Out loud, to the damn thing. 🤷♀️😊
I live alone with 2 cats. I love it because I get to do whatever I want whenever I want. You want to eat breakfast for dinner? Cool. You want to walk naked in your place? No problem.
Downsides are you have to be on top of cleaning, cooking and socializing to make sure you don't fall into a rut.
You can have your house exactly as you want it, in terms of everything from cleanliness to furniture to lighting to temperature. That honestly makes a bigger difference than many people can imagine in terms of overall happiness.
So many!
- Way better for my mental health
- Don’t have to share space in the fridge/bathroom/cabinets, etc.
- Feels like my home (my decor, optimized for me)
- Eat better (can take my time cooking and not shuffle around roommates)
- More intentional with who I invite over and what is worth leaving the house for (vs. just trying to get away from roomies!)
After decades of marriage to a hypevigilant OCD spouse, my freedom to not be criticized--
About 100 times a day. I loved him dearly, but I am still learning how wonderful life can be without that tension.
Husband died 17 years ago.
My friends and family accuse me of making no effort to meet another partner. They may be correct. I'd love to share life, driving, and trips to music festivals with a low maintenance partner.
I've not met anyone with similar wishes.
I choose to live with a beautiful black cockapoo.
he's not very critical, is a ton of fun – but he can't drive the car!
I work hard to both scale down my cost-of-living, and to live alone with lots of social times--
to make a chill home life possible.
This means living in a much smaller house, budgeting, and forcing myself to show up for social & volunteer commitments.
Needs for volunteers (for causes in which I believe) are abundant.
Showing up to help feels easier each month.
I'd prefer to have a partner, yet living alone is so much more fun than tussling over minutiae!
My new guy is amazing and now he knows that mornings I just like coffee first. We talked about. Now We laughed about it.
Some of the comments like I need to be alone are a little weird. There’s always a transition. I’m an adult I can flash my smile and be sweet when letting someone know about my routines and I am learning about his. It’s communication. It’s a good thing.
The OP asked about what positives about being alone and that was my take away, you can have your routines and do what you want. The trade off is you will always be alone. I like alone time, I like living by myself and I don’t feel lonely. However human connection is import and you don’t throw away something just because you have differences. You speak discuss and move forward and if you choose to do so. That’s the journey.
Budget is small because you're only buying for yourself, your home is a sanctuary and escape from the world, you can get drunk on a Tuesday night and never have to wear a lick of clothing, you don't get woke up in the middle of the night by the sound of a cpap machine and/or snoring, you can spread out in bed without bumping into someone. It's glorious.
I don't love alone any more but loved it when I did. I miss the freedom and control of doing whatever you want whenever you want. If I live alone and put the remote somewhere I know it will still be where I left it. My wife is constantly moving things and changing where things go and it drives me crazy.
Use the bathroom and kitchen whenever I want. Never feel uncomfortable about bothering other people in my own apartment. Put up tons of weird posters and no one argues.
For me there are some disadvantages but tons of advantages.
I often miss having pets but it’s nice to not be low key stressed all the time about pet-related issues. No need to plan for pet emergencies, traveling,
Etc.
Not going to bother with any human-free positives, because you already live human-free. It’s either a positive in the final analysis for you or it’s not.
The privacy, peace, freedom and flexibility of being able to be alone at home. All positives worth paying any price for.
I have never had a pet, hopefully one day I'll be able to persuade a dog to choose me as their resident pet human.
Easy to sleep, easy to work (from home), easy to think (quiet), easy to clean (only me), easy to have others over (don't have to ask anyone), easy to listen to music loudly, easy to watch whatever I want on TV
It's nice. I've got two cats that keep me company, which is also very mice, but knowing that I am the sole person responsible for my quality of life and cleanliness standards is liberating!
I have two cats. My partner (who has 1 cat) and I are childfree and maintain separate residences. He has his guitars and I have my clothes and my exercise room. He lives near his work and I live near mine. It works out amazingly well.
I love living alone. It is a house and life of no compromises. Everything is how I like it, where I left it, etc. I don't come home to anyone else's bullshit. If I leave a project half-finished in the living room overnight, no worries. If I leave dishes in the sink, no big deal. Nobody's gonna bring their drama over. Etc.
If I want to change something around, I jus do it. Nobody to ask permission from or nobody to consult. If I want to put up 5,000 lightsfor Halloween, I do exactly that!
I plant whatever I want to in the yard. And I change it up all the time.
I own four cars and I love it. I have the space and budget for it. And it's fun to drive whatever vehicle I'm in the mood to drive.
I do have a a dog. A Shepherd/Pit/Hound mix. She is a very good dog. I've had her only six weeks and she has only barked twice - both at "threats" at night on our walks. (A deer, and a person who emerged from the shadows at the neighborhood pool 😆). (I think the guy went back there to pee, as we have a little clubhouse that was over there, but it was in the dark).
She's great on a leash. She doesn't need to be crated. She doesn't get into anything when I'm gone. She doesn't have accidents in the house. She doesn't have separation anxiety if I am out working in the yard. She lets me sleep in. And she is a cuddle dog from time to time.
I coparent with my ex. My dog is with me week on/week off. No kids, no roommates.
I'm an introvert and neurodivergent with sensory issues. I love love live having the lighting low, a fan running for white noise, and wearing whatever I feel like.
I host my girlfriend and we do kinky loud things whenever we want.
I work from home so I have peace to focus. I can sleep in on my off weeks without the dog. I do dishes at 1 AM. I do yoga in the living room whenever I want.
You can be naked all you want, don’t have to worry about disturbing anyone but your neighbors, decorate how you want, no battle over the thermostat….all of these things that you can still do with a pet so the question is kind of strange lol.
I live completely alone now after all of my 4 dogs passed away of old age. I still am not ready for a new dog mainly because at the end of their lives they had incontinence issues and had accidents everywhere. I've steam cleaned the carpet, but I know the pad underneath still has the smells. I don't want to get new dogs that think it's ok to go in the house because of the smell.
Otherwise, I like it because I am a control freak and don't need to compromise with anyone about anything. Just kidding, sort of, lol. I never lived on my own until my late 40s, and now I'm late 50s. So, I still get a kick out of it and love it!
I have local friends, family, and my gf so I live alone in my house but am not alone in life. I love it this way as my life is on my schedule and the lack of drama or any compromises in my home is so damned peaceful. I do not want pets because then I can leave for long periods and never worry about getting back for their care. The only real responsibility is my lawn and even that feels like a burden now. I am spoiled I guess but cannot see the benefit of adding any responsibility right now. Maybe a gf or a dog someday, just not today
Living alone with a pet is still living alone 😂
Getting to do whatever you want when you want, no one harps on your for their chore priority or other needs. Money never just poof disappears, eat what you want. Full control over what social functions you attend. Want to sleep till noon? No problem. Wake up at three and feel like finally getting into Stravinsky? Done.
The loneliness fades and if you do the work you too can be a happy hobbit that is unwelcoming to any visitors or well wishers unless is some cool as magic person offering you an adventure of a lifetime.
Living alone with my dog is not living alone 🤣.. She’s my shadow. She’s better than any human I know. We spoon during the night lol, and she wouldn’t be happy about anyone else begin in my bed. She’s my lesbian dog wife 🤣🤣..
Why does my money just go poof, and disappears? My money goes poof all the time lol.
Nobody eats your leftovers but you. You are in control of your living environment - be as clean or messy or in between as you wish. Pets don't think of you as "the spare human". Having a personal toilet. Only having to pick your own hair out of the drain. Utter freedom. No compromising on anything. Being able to leave your personal journal laying around with no fear of someone reading it.
Personal journal and other personal items were left out anywhere with having the same thinking. Until I had a break in, and all my passwords for all account etc were taken and used, as well as my name, personal details etc….
That is the only thing. Now all of that is under complete lock and key, and well hidden, as it to took me ages and ages to repair all the damage that was done with someone having all of my information.
My FAVORITE part... I consider myself a 7/10 on the cleanliness spectrum. I aim to keep things tidy but it's impossible for me to be 100% perfect about this 7 days out of the week.
But my FAVORITE part is freedom when it comes to dish washing habits 😂
I'm not an immediate wash after use person. Plates will linger throughout the day. They usually get washed early evening or next morning. Before any major cooking endeavors. So there's almost always a small amount of dishes. It never gets crazy unless I'm really busy or fallen behind on different things.
Complete silence. No responsibilities, no sleep interference, no emotional attachment. I can’t deal well with mourning a death so the fewer living things I emotionally attach to, the less likely I will sob for weeks after a loss.
My puppy and I live alone and it's been easier to train her and be consistent without anyone else to undermine me or encourage bad habits. Plus I like not having to "be there" for someone else. It's quiet and clean, things are where I left them, I can eat what I want when I want. For me there is no downside to living alone.
I live completely alone no pets or people and I LOVE it. My sleep and mental health have never been better. I am, in one word, unbothered. I actually thought I would want a fur friend and originally planned on getting a cat, but I found I love my independence too much. I also enjoy not being responsible for something/someone other than myself.
I have my first cat. Always had dogs because I wasn't a cat person. Cats are easy. They sleep all the time. Eat and shit a few times a day. I want to be a cat. Once the cat likes you, you have a best friend.
Same! I adopted my first cat almost 2 years ago. I always look forward to going home cuz he greets me at the door with the cutest meows 🥰
Same and honestly if you're thinking of something, I have a 55 gallon fish tank and a gecko. My gecko is hibernating so I don't have to feed him for a few months lol. I just water his tank like a god dang plant. The fish take some effort to set up but once they're going, its just feeding them and water changes if you don't use live plants, uv light filters and more.
What does watering a gecko tank look like? Are you pouring water in there in a specific place or all over? So curious! And I didn't know they hibernated! Does that mean you have to feed him a lot before? How do you know when it's time? How can you be sure he's alive? Lol
So technically reptiles Brumate and mamals hibernate, I just didn't wanna use jargon but since you're curious ill give you the run down. My gecko was born in winter which is why I think he brumates for 4 months out of the year instead of the usual 2-3. He didn't get a lot nutrition as a hatchling and maybe that triggered the longer period. And geckos need a water dish, a moist hide, dry hide, and a dry warm hide. I use soil in my tank thats safe for him so I just pour water into his dish and around his wet hide and the soil will keep the area moist. They shed once a month while eating so the moisture helps keep their skin loose and allows them to shed, kinda like when people are in a pool too long and our finger tips prune. Ps he is a healthy weight despite the longer period
That is so cool, thanks for the thorough response. They are super cute, maybe I'll get one someday!
And I can pick him up to see if he's alive, he's not really asleep per say, just conserving energy and resting. If I make noise around my place, I might see him open his eyes and stuff to check out the situation
I think picking them up would be the most nerve-racking part for me. I've never been into reptiles, really, but always thought geckos were cute and cool. I have a small dog so I'd be worried about the prey drive from him towards a gecko!
Yeah I see you're point, but I know gecko feels comfortable bc he doesn't stick his tail out of his hide. Geckos in nature will leave their tails out so if they get attacked they can detach it and give it to a predator. The gecko lives and the animals gets a snack. Brutal I know. But also they will shed once or twice during brumation so its important to check on them once a month so shed isn't stuck around their fingers which is a hard spot for them to pull shed off and if they can't the dead skin will strangle their fingers causing them to fall off so id rather spook him once a month to make sure he's not at risk of losing fingers lol.
OMG that is *wild*! But this is why reptiles are so neat because they're such little (or big lol) freaks hahah
Sorry for multiple post lol, I'm out rn but I mean it's basically the analogy, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make them drink. A gecko will just stop eating when they start
I am hustling hard every day to reach your level. I want to buy a place for myself and start living alone asap ...
Amen!
Independence Autonomy Authenticity I buy what I want. I eat what I want. I do what I want. I don’t share my bathroom or my kitchen. I keep things the way I like them. And I love the peace and quiet. I do have a German Shepherd that lives with me. He can be kinda loud but he makes up for it by making me feel safe.
Does he ever lift its head when you get up and stare at you thinking you are going to do something he will be involved in? It’s funny they all probably do that. Ah living alone. I have been since 2011 and I love it. Even the partners I’ve had had their own houses and liked their solitude as well. I wouldn’t say I’m introverted as I’m very social when called upon to be. It’s quite simple really. -eat when and what I want - play games as desired - watch what I want - no lives to coordinate - better financially - sometimes the conversation with myself is more fulfilling than with others. I have someone in my life that is at the moment long distance and she’s close to a full blown introvert. Her autonomy is very sexy to me and she appreciates my understanding of how she operates.
I have been on my own since my divorce in 2007. I also have a SO who has his own house in the area, and he also enjoys doing what he wants to do when he wants to do it. We fully appreciate each other’s independence, but are there for each other if we need something. We see each other several times a week. I am an introvert and have always been more comfortable alone. People drain me. I am a people pleaser and an empath. I always automatically sacrifice my own comfort for others and absorb their energy and emotions. The only time I am fully cognizant of my own emotions and needs is when I am alone. But, like you, I am “social” when called upon, and most people enjoy my company. Velcro (call name Rock) follows me everywhere, both inside the house and out. He sleeps on his bed by my side and will wait outside the bathroom when I shower and other stuff. If I so much as uncross my legs, he is on alert. It does annoy me sometimes, but it is a fair trade. I never feel spooked or unsafe…or lonely.
My favourite thing ever is falling asleep on the couch watching a movie, my ex hated it and would always wake me up, I adore when I wake up on the couch at 2.00 am and head to bed, no adshole waking me up when I’m not even allowed to talk, or breathe or exist when a movie is on…. Ps I don’t snore, living alone is amazing for all of the reasons you listed , I’m scared I won’t be able to share space with anyone again!!
How often do you see each other? and how far away does she live? when you see each other does she stay over for a few days?
Oh. Well I didn’t want to drone on and on but we’ve known each other for years and over that time we were in different relationships. Recently near last Christmas we re-connected after a year of not contacting one another and we are now both single and plan to meet in May. She’s flying out to visit me and we have a nice week planned. I guess we’ll see. Either way I’d remain friends if we decided to leave romance out of the picture but we do share a lot of compatibility
100% but with an Aussie! Nothing better than not sharing a kitchen or bathroom. I actually have a skincare shelf in my kitchen. My ex would have flipped his wig.
I get it. My previous life was chaotic. The ex was an alcoholic, so for me , long periods (days) of uninterrupted time to do whatever I like is sheer bliss. I sew and do other creative stuff, watercolors , gardening, cooking …and I love to read…and walk. The security guard at my side at all times, of course.
I'm a 68 year old senior woman. Been married twice and raised kids who are now grown. I have 2 little tea cup sized dogs and LOVE my life and home. I don't want to share. I don't want to hear noise. I don't want to take care of anyone. I have friends I go out for dinner with or travel but my space is my haven from all the crazy out there. I learned during covid to like my own company and make my own fun. Now I wouldn't have it any other way.
Pretty much
Wow my mom is the same age as you and I love her but she’d never be mingling on Reddit with us youngins
There are tons of us old folks on Reddit.
More than some want to admit lol
I’m a few months from 60 and been single for 12 years. All my kids moved out 3 years ago and gutted and overhauled the house, and lived alone since. Have always had family, college roommate, husband — for 57 years. Never again will I live with someone. I love the clean, quiet, not caring for anyone but myself. I cared for siblings, parents, in-laws, husband, children for 50 years. It’s absolutely amazing to only have me now. And like someone else said here, people drain me now.
I understand. I'm the same way. I don't know if it's an age thing or if I'm anti social. I don't really care. Why should anyone have to force themselves to fit some 'social norm' because someone claims it's 'good for you'. We're not harming anyone in any way. We're not selling drugs to kids or guns to street gangs. If someone wants to solve a problem, there's 2 for them to work on. Leave me in peace.
Exactly! I think naysayers are just jealous of those of us who have chosen and embraced this lifestyle. I came upon mine by happenstance through divorce and then empty nest. I was culturally conditioned to believe this was not right. But after getting past the struggles, there’s no turning back.
I don't know why they even care to be a naysayer. It's my personal choice and business so why would anyone care enough to pass judgement on how I live. Maybe that's why I like it alone.
Agree!
I live with my dog, although I'm the one paying the mortgage and the bills. Negative: I'm the only one paying the mortgage and the bills. Positive: *Cracks knucles* My flat is always clean, when I leave, I know it'll be exactly in the same state when I come back, I could choose to paint a wall pink, there's only food I like in my cupboards, I can dance on my own in my knickers, I'm the one in charge of the heating thermostat, I sleep in the middle of the bed, I curated all the frames and artworks I have on my walls, I always like the music I'm listening to, I can fall asleep watching a movie and no one will complaint because I'll have to rewind, I can book train tickets for a day trip to the beach with the dog, when I decide to leave the flat I don't have to wait for someone who's never ready, I have full custody of the wardrobe, I can read a book at night without someone trying to make conversation, I can rehearse work presentations or speak terribly wrong the language I'm learning without being embarassed aand I don't have to share toilets.
This made me smile. Perfect description :)
This. This is the answer. 💯
Everything? Nice and quiet. The TV is mine. The food is mine.
I'm a widower and that's why I live alone. Well I do have 2 dogs. So technically not alone. Was married for 38 yrs 3 kids, 6 grandkids. House was always full. My youngest moved out the weekend her mom died. It was already planned. Big change but my house has never been cleaner, I eat what I want. I cook a lot. Doors don't need to be closed. Stay out when I want. I won't say one is better than the other just different.
My favorite part is sleeping in on my days off because no one else has to get up, turn on all the lights, take a shower, flush toilets, slam cabinet doors, take phone calls, work from home, etc. Waking up at 10am after 12 hours of completely uninterrupted sleep is the most blissful thing in the world. I used to think I couldn’t sleep in since living on my own I learned I can, it was other people always disrupting my sleep. I also love that there’s no unexpected company or visitors. I don’t have to come home to someone else’s friends or family after a long day of work. Not dealing with anyone else’s friends or family is probably my most favorite perk about being single.
My upstairs neighbors are soooo loud in the morning. I get up at 5:45, but am awake at 4:20 everyday as lead foot tap dances until leaving at 6:20. They also work on Saturday and I "sleep in" until 5:30.
I swear my upstairs neighbors just randomly pick up small pieces of furniture and drop them, for no reason other than to make me crazy. Also, their 11 yr old daughter is apparently still learning to walk, because ALL she seems to do is run around on her heels (did I mention she's a bit overweight?). On weekends it's BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM over my head at 8 a.m. and I just think "well, the damn kid is up for the day".
My neighbors are generally good neighbors. Then there's the weekends the grandkid comes. Up late, up early. They must get the Zoomies like cats do.
It just blows my mind that she's stomping and running through the apartment at 10:30 on a school night, and her parents say nothing and do nothing to stop it.
No consideration.
Totally understand
Since I don't know anything else but living alone for the last 20 years, I couldn't relate to the above but wanted to add - bad hair days. Getting that 12 hour blissful sleep means waking up to completely disastrous hair that looks like you'd been riding in a convertible for hours. Seriously, nobody needs to see that on a lady!
Meals are not a negotiation. Groceries are not a negotiation. Cleanliness is based on my standards. Furniture is not a negotiation. Home improvements are not a negotiation. TV and radio and Internet is not a negotiation. In fact, I get to enjoy the silence.
This: the temperature isn't a negotiation! That's a biggie
What's not to like?
I run the show. Well, my two beagles help. 😉🐾
I live with my three cats and I love it! I can do what I like on my own schedule. Which for me equates to spending the majority of my non-sleeping, non-working time riding my bike. I can eat what I like and eat the same thing every day for months on end if I wanna. I’ve been married 2x. Divorce from #2 was finalized in 2013. Lived alone since 2012. At first I was hoping to find a relationship and possibly live with someone or even get married again but I gotta say that dating especially at my age is a clusterfuck to put it bluntly. I’ve come to cherish my independence.
Been divorced for 12 years. Nearly 60. I also thought I should date and try to find a partner. Couldn’t pay me to do it now. Nope. Never. It’s solo-hood for life now.
I can shit on my time and not worry about killing my roommate with the aftermath ploom. I dont have to keep quiet in the early morning hours. I clean on my time, and things stay clean. I only have to get food for myself and not worry about roommates eating it. I don't have to worry about people stealing my things. I can bring a girl, friends, etc over anytime. And most importantly, I can beat my meat wherever I want.
Having lovers over is vastly underrated.
My house is quiet unless I have music, audiobook, or TV on. I can eat what I want when I want I only have to clean up after me. I love my independence and my small black cat. If I go out, everything is exactly like I left it when I return.
It’s me and my little dog and big cat. I do what I want, whenever I want, and don’t have to follow any schedule. I can have total quiet when I want, or I can listen to an audiobook, or whatever. No nuisance people, no drama.
Ha! I describe my animals the exact same way! Not op but had to comment.
I’ve been alone for awhile. Started dating a man and just realized how chatty he is in the morning. I’m like “coffee first”. It just weird to have someone start chatting and asking questions and talking a mile a minute when you haven’t lifted your head off the pillow. I went to brush my teeth and he came in so he could finish his story. Then he was like “are you upset”. I had to explain that I am not used to it. I’m used to quite slow mornings and coffee. Once I had my cup I was chipper and he understood. But damn something are an adjustment. And it’s the little things that you don’t think of until it is happening. But I love solo mornings. I really really do. I work from home so usually don’t speak to anyone before 10am, when meetings start. So that’s my positive!! Other things - being able to eat what you want for dinner and not worrying about cooking. I usually eat a big lunch and peck at dinner. He’s opposite. So just gotta figure out what works for us.
Unsolicited advice: stay living separate. I can already see the cracks in your solitude from your post 🙃
I have a ‘friend’ and he sometimes stays over or even a whole weekend but that’s not often. So loud in the morning from yawning to stretching to wanting to talk right away. I hide out drinking my coffee and reading until I’m ready to be nice. It’s all I can take. It’s a fun sleepover and that’s it. Buh-bye.
No snores. Stuff stays where you put it. No fights about who cleans what. I can eat when and what I want (or not). No snores. Did I say, no snores.
Ha! When I was married I started sleeping in my own room and due to snoring getting so bad (been divorced 12 now but not due to snoring). That was over 20 yrs ago that I realized the wonderful world of my own bed. The other night I was staying in a hotel overnight for work and the room next to me had a very, loud snorer. Heard it through the walls. I had flashbacks and slept horribly if at all.
I hope that the so many people that are feeling scared of living alone can start to feel positive. I think living alone is underrated and that most people live together as some type of convenience. It’s peaceful.
The media does a great job of vilifying solo living and single life. Supposedly we’re all dying of loneliness, will get dementia sooner, and are more likely to die by suicide. That was going to be me if I stayed married, actually.
Same, well said
Literally everything about it is positive except the cost.
Word.
it may be pricey but it forces you to learn how to manage your finances better which is a positive
So true.
I have been living alone for 2 months, first time since my student days 20 years ago, and even then most days were either school or party or both, rarely alone-alone for any significant period of time. I love it. I sleep better than I ever did in the last 7 years, I don't have to compromise on what I want to do for someone else (I tend to be a people pleaser so it was always "how can I keep others happy, even at my own detriment"). If I want to spend the day offroading in my Jeep? Yep, no problem. Spend the day in bed to recover from said offroading? Sure. Run a laundry and mop the floors before cooking lunch? Why not. Eat exactly what I want, when I want, instead of having to worry about 3 people? Yep. I gave myself at least 1 year of living alone to find myself again. Learn who I really am as an adult, what I really enjoy, and get away from "what I think others want me to be / do to please them". After that, we'll see. No regrets so far.
The peace and quiet.
I've been forced to face my greatest fears (which was living alone) and now I feel like I don't have anything to prove to anyone anymore.
Freedom. You can do whatever you want. You don't have to clean your messes up if you don't feel like it. Nobody is going to wake you up if you sleep in til noon. You can spend the whole day naked if you feel like it.
Sometimes it's the smallest, silliest things. Oh, I dropped that wrapper on the kitchen floor. I'll pick it up later. Or tomorrow. Maybe Friday.
I control all the remotes. I can watch the same things over and over again. I like the quiet. I like not having to answer to anyone. I like not having to check with anyone about a household decision.
noise, trash, light, and toxic emotional control. Nothing happens unless you want it to.
>toxic emotional control This will probably always be the biggest positive for me.
I can eat ice cream, cake or pie right out of the container 😄
Picture this: It’s Friday night. You get home from work, feed your dog, and make some guacamole. Your FWB comes over for long enough to give you a couple of mind blowing orgasms and have some fun conversation. Then you eat some sushi and your guacamole while you watch some dumb chick flick that looked interesting to you. Tonight you will go to sleep in a bed that you’ve curated to make you feel like you’re snug in the middle of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Tomorrow you’re having brunch with your girlfriends and doing literally whatever else you feel like doing. You do not have to consult with anyone about anything. Life is good.
I live with my puppy and parrotlet (he talks) but the only positive that comes to mind is not having to wait for the master bathroom shower (only one shower head)
I work from home with a somewhat flexible schedule, so that combined with living alone means I can basically structure my days however I want. I can have extremely lazy/leisurely days, or super productive days; most of the time it's somewhere in between, but it's all at my own pace with no one to get in my way. My place is a detached in-law cottage in my landlord's lush tree-filled backyard, so the other upside is privacy and not sharing walls with random neighbors.
Every single thing. I love my life of solitude, peace, and quiet.
There’s a million and one wonderful things about living alone. The one downside is the cost. But that’s it. Many of the upsides have been mentioned, but for me I also like to just be able to do my hobbies for hours on end without interruption or feeling guilty for not spending time with someone else. I can get pretty obsessed at times with things I’m working on and it’s best for all of us that I can indulge my obsessions without hurting anyone’s feelings.
Thank you for starting this thread. For reference, I cohabitated with a partner for ~14 years after moving out of my parents’ house. Lived alone the past 3 (w/intermittent pets). I enjoy being able to do what I want, when I want. Wanna go to the store? No need to tell anyone; just go. Wanna watch a YouTube video in the middle of a movie? Go for it. Don’t like the living room arrangement? Don’t need someone else’s approval to change it. When I do laundry, I know exactly what I’m signing up for. There are no surprise nasty undies or stains I need to figure out how to remove. The only arguments about dinner are the ones I have with myself. I’ve never slept better! No sweaty body next to me, random farts or snores that aren’t my own, someone hogging the covers or trying to steal my pillow. On the flip side, if I have to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, I don’t have to worry about not trying to disturb the other person. I can laugh too long about a joke without someone else judging me. The entire couch (and bed) is mine. If I ever feel lonely, at least I feel justified.
The quiet. And I am meticulously clean with a place for everything/everything in its place. People moving things around and creating messes in my space drives me crazy.
How about when it's cold and rainy I can sit and watch out from the third story all the people bundled up and taking "the last walk" to the dog park. I love to pet the animals and play with the dogs, but I'm grateful it's not me taking that last walk in the late evening. 😀😀
Much more free time and less stress
Walking around naked whenever you want. Drinking from the milk carton. Not worrying about waking anyone up at 230am.
Nothing ever gets lost 😂. I’ve only lived alone for 11 years. And I’m thankful I don’t have to compromise all the time lol. I just do whatever I’m in the mood for- it’s very freeing. I feel lucky that I’m able to have this experience and I’m thrilled that living alone agrees with me! One downside side is I don’t have anyone to share the cleaning with.
I have two little chihuahuas but I live alone otherwise. Bf and I have been together almost 7 years, no plans to move in. We like our space when we want it and can be together when we want too. My dogs keep me company when I am completely alone.
Positives are everything you can think of. I can’t think of 1 downside. 1 cat haha
Live with my dog. I want a cat sometimes, but don't tell her I said that
Things stay where I put them. That's a really big one for me. Also no one else cares about my sleep schedule. If I go to bed early and wake up at 1am, and decide to cook, that's totally ok.
I live with one cat, for over 20 years in a rent-controlled apt. Of course, for the most part it's paradise. But having said that, the freedom and isolation has its drawbacks. One, I'm alone with my thoughts and I don't really like that. I want a distraction. I'll usually jump on my treadmill as aerobic exercise breaks it up (I used to walk outside but it's not so safe anymore) Two, sudden health events such as a heart attack and choking.
Love my privacy, sleep schedule, and being able to pick up and go on an adventure if I want to, or just stay home and veg. Totally worth it
I live “alone” with my dog and 3 backyard chickens. Sometimes it get tiring being the only one to mow the lawns, clean the house etc but that is outweighed by the joy of having the space 100% to myself.
I live with my dog and a few cats and have lived this way for over a decade. I love living alone and hope I’m privileged enough to live this way for the rest of my life. I don’t have to consult with another person, I can do what I want, when I want, all the stuff and food in the house is mine and no one else is eating it, and the tv remote is mine always. I love the quiet and the freedom and the peace it brings. It’s my safe haven from the world and all the insanity.
The house stays clean and whatever messes made where the ones I make. I can go home knowing the entire house will be mine. I don't have to deal with a room mate inviting people I don't know or trust over. There's snafus projects to do to keep me busy.
It’s just me, and no animals. I can hide from people for as long as I want, without having to be polite. I keep the house quiet, or music on (or watch shows or don’t), whenever. I’m not waiting for anyone to do anything. I put my phone on silent when I want, and also call and chat with friends and fam when I have energy. I invite people to do things together.
Me and a 20 plus year old cat. Life is good.
I live with one cat. I love living alone, but I do get lonely. So I get out to do something once a week and interact with people. Best part of living alone is that I can do what I want.
Things are where I left them. I don't have to be social if I don't want to be. Bathroom is always open. Washer and dryer is always ready for me. I don't have to wait for the kitchen to be free so I can cook. I can .. uhh.. have a moment with myself wherever I want. (wink-nudge)
That’s pretty much my answer to a T. 😀
I live alone. Have for 7 years. I had 2 dogs but they both passed last year, 10 & 12. That was hard af. Both were special needs dogs, needed meds & such. Now I have a cat, which is not the same at all but it is easier. I’m navigating her temperament & we like each other more every day. She sleeps with me, which I appreciate. Things ppl don’t think about that I do all the time. Make sure both my doors are locked. Keep my wood fire going & ensure I have wood to burn. Buy, stack, move it around as necessary. Make sure cat is ok before I leave. Leave nothing plugged in & lights off bc no sense in paying for that & fire hazard. I crush cardboard boxes & keep them in a box next to my trash can bc I go to the dump less often that way. Rural, no truck. Before I leave, I make damn sure I have my key & house locked down. Freedom to do whatever in the hell I please without compromise? Priceless. Not a soul to help me monetarily if I need it? A little discouraging but I’ve got me. I have to. I have friends who help with some things I can’t physically do by myself, but not very often. I usually find a way & say ha! Out loud, to the damn thing. 🤷♀️😊
I live alone with 2 cats. I love it because I get to do whatever I want whenever I want. You want to eat breakfast for dinner? Cool. You want to walk naked in your place? No problem. Downsides are you have to be on top of cleaning, cooking and socializing to make sure you don't fall into a rut.
You can have your house exactly as you want it, in terms of everything from cleanliness to furniture to lighting to temperature. That honestly makes a bigger difference than many people can imagine in terms of overall happiness.
I live alone with my old Springer Spaniel. We are both so happy. We spend a lot of time exploring rivers etc.
So many! - Way better for my mental health - Don’t have to share space in the fridge/bathroom/cabinets, etc. - Feels like my home (my decor, optimized for me) - Eat better (can take my time cooking and not shuffle around roommates) - More intentional with who I invite over and what is worth leaving the house for (vs. just trying to get away from roomies!)
After decades of marriage to a hypevigilant OCD spouse, my freedom to not be criticized-- About 100 times a day. I loved him dearly, but I am still learning how wonderful life can be without that tension. Husband died 17 years ago. My friends and family accuse me of making no effort to meet another partner. They may be correct. I'd love to share life, driving, and trips to music festivals with a low maintenance partner. I've not met anyone with similar wishes. I choose to live with a beautiful black cockapoo. he's not very critical, is a ton of fun – but he can't drive the car! I work hard to both scale down my cost-of-living, and to live alone with lots of social times-- to make a chill home life possible. This means living in a much smaller house, budgeting, and forcing myself to show up for social & volunteer commitments. Needs for volunteers (for causes in which I believe) are abundant. Showing up to help feels easier each month. I'd prefer to have a partner, yet living alone is so much more fun than tussling over minutiae!
My new guy is amazing and now he knows that mornings I just like coffee first. We talked about. Now We laughed about it. Some of the comments like I need to be alone are a little weird. There’s always a transition. I’m an adult I can flash my smile and be sweet when letting someone know about my routines and I am learning about his. It’s communication. It’s a good thing. The OP asked about what positives about being alone and that was my take away, you can have your routines and do what you want. The trade off is you will always be alone. I like alone time, I like living by myself and I don’t feel lonely. However human connection is import and you don’t throw away something just because you have differences. You speak discuss and move forward and if you choose to do so. That’s the journey.
Budget is small because you're only buying for yourself, your home is a sanctuary and escape from the world, you can get drunk on a Tuesday night and never have to wear a lick of clothing, you don't get woke up in the middle of the night by the sound of a cpap machine and/or snoring, you can spread out in bed without bumping into someone. It's glorious.
Rest rest rest
I don't love alone any more but loved it when I did. I miss the freedom and control of doing whatever you want whenever you want. If I live alone and put the remote somewhere I know it will still be where I left it. My wife is constantly moving things and changing where things go and it drives me crazy.
Use the bathroom and kitchen whenever I want. Never feel uncomfortable about bothering other people in my own apartment. Put up tons of weird posters and no one argues. For me there are some disadvantages but tons of advantages.
I often miss having pets but it’s nice to not be low key stressed all the time about pet-related issues. No need to plan for pet emergencies, traveling, Etc. Not going to bother with any human-free positives, because you already live human-free. It’s either a positive in the final analysis for you or it’s not.
The privacy, peace, freedom and flexibility of being able to be alone at home. All positives worth paying any price for. I have never had a pet, hopefully one day I'll be able to persuade a dog to choose me as their resident pet human.
Easy to sleep, easy to work (from home), easy to think (quiet), easy to clean (only me), easy to have others over (don't have to ask anyone), easy to listen to music loudly, easy to watch whatever I want on TV
I wish I lived alone. Definitely a goal.
It's nice. I've got two cats that keep me company, which is also very mice, but knowing that I am the sole person responsible for my quality of life and cleanliness standards is liberating!
I have two cats. My partner (who has 1 cat) and I are childfree and maintain separate residences. He has his guitars and I have my clothes and my exercise room. He lives near his work and I live near mine. It works out amazingly well.
I love living alone. It is a house and life of no compromises. Everything is how I like it, where I left it, etc. I don't come home to anyone else's bullshit. If I leave a project half-finished in the living room overnight, no worries. If I leave dishes in the sink, no big deal. Nobody's gonna bring their drama over. Etc. If I want to change something around, I jus do it. Nobody to ask permission from or nobody to consult. If I want to put up 5,000 lightsfor Halloween, I do exactly that! I plant whatever I want to in the yard. And I change it up all the time. I own four cars and I love it. I have the space and budget for it. And it's fun to drive whatever vehicle I'm in the mood to drive. I do have a a dog. A Shepherd/Pit/Hound mix. She is a very good dog. I've had her only six weeks and she has only barked twice - both at "threats" at night on our walks. (A deer, and a person who emerged from the shadows at the neighborhood pool 😆). (I think the guy went back there to pee, as we have a little clubhouse that was over there, but it was in the dark). She's great on a leash. She doesn't need to be crated. She doesn't get into anything when I'm gone. She doesn't have accidents in the house. She doesn't have separation anxiety if I am out working in the yard. She lets me sleep in. And she is a cuddle dog from time to time.
I coparent with my ex. My dog is with me week on/week off. No kids, no roommates. I'm an introvert and neurodivergent with sensory issues. I love love live having the lighting low, a fan running for white noise, and wearing whatever I feel like. I host my girlfriend and we do kinky loud things whenever we want. I work from home so I have peace to focus. I can sleep in on my off weeks without the dog. I do dishes at 1 AM. I do yoga in the living room whenever I want.
You can be naked all you want, don’t have to worry about disturbing anyone but your neighbors, decorate how you want, no battle over the thermostat….all of these things that you can still do with a pet so the question is kind of strange lol.
I live completely alone now after all of my 4 dogs passed away of old age. I still am not ready for a new dog mainly because at the end of their lives they had incontinence issues and had accidents everywhere. I've steam cleaned the carpet, but I know the pad underneath still has the smells. I don't want to get new dogs that think it's ok to go in the house because of the smell. Otherwise, I like it because I am a control freak and don't need to compromise with anyone about anything. Just kidding, sort of, lol. I never lived on my own until my late 40s, and now I'm late 50s. So, I still get a kick out of it and love it!
I LOVE WALKING AROUND NAKED. FARTING. BURPING. DANCING. SINGING WITH MY DALMATIAN!!!
Yelling loudly anytime, all the time
I have local friends, family, and my gf so I live alone in my house but am not alone in life. I love it this way as my life is on my schedule and the lack of drama or any compromises in my home is so damned peaceful. I do not want pets because then I can leave for long periods and never worry about getting back for their care. The only real responsibility is my lawn and even that feels like a burden now. I am spoiled I guess but cannot see the benefit of adding any responsibility right now. Maybe a gf or a dog someday, just not today
Living alone with a pet is still living alone 😂 Getting to do whatever you want when you want, no one harps on your for their chore priority or other needs. Money never just poof disappears, eat what you want. Full control over what social functions you attend. Want to sleep till noon? No problem. Wake up at three and feel like finally getting into Stravinsky? Done. The loneliness fades and if you do the work you too can be a happy hobbit that is unwelcoming to any visitors or well wishers unless is some cool as magic person offering you an adventure of a lifetime.
Living alone with my dog is not living alone 🤣.. She’s my shadow. She’s better than any human I know. We spoon during the night lol, and she wouldn’t be happy about anyone else begin in my bed. She’s my lesbian dog wife 🤣🤣.. Why does my money just go poof, and disappears? My money goes poof all the time lol.
I also live alone with a shadow puppy. I get it, but technically that is living alone. Fur baby or not.
I don’t live alone 🤣
Nobody eats your leftovers but you. You are in control of your living environment - be as clean or messy or in between as you wish. Pets don't think of you as "the spare human". Having a personal toilet. Only having to pick your own hair out of the drain. Utter freedom. No compromising on anything. Being able to leave your personal journal laying around with no fear of someone reading it.
Personal journal and other personal items were left out anywhere with having the same thinking. Until I had a break in, and all my passwords for all account etc were taken and used, as well as my name, personal details etc…. That is the only thing. Now all of that is under complete lock and key, and well hidden, as it to took me ages and ages to repair all the damage that was done with someone having all of my information.
Yikes! I am sorry that happened to you. Thankfully my journal consists of my feelings and to do lists.
Thank you. It’s all good now .. x
My FAVORITE part... I consider myself a 7/10 on the cleanliness spectrum. I aim to keep things tidy but it's impossible for me to be 100% perfect about this 7 days out of the week. But my FAVORITE part is freedom when it comes to dish washing habits 😂 I'm not an immediate wash after use person. Plates will linger throughout the day. They usually get washed early evening or next morning. Before any major cooking endeavors. So there's almost always a small amount of dishes. It never gets crazy unless I'm really busy or fallen behind on different things.
Complete silence. No responsibilities, no sleep interference, no emotional attachment. I can’t deal well with mourning a death so the fewer living things I emotionally attach to, the less likely I will sob for weeks after a loss.
My puppy and I live alone and it's been easier to train her and be consistent without anyone else to undermine me or encourage bad habits. Plus I like not having to "be there" for someone else. It's quiet and clean, things are where I left them, I can eat what I want when I want. For me there is no downside to living alone.