31 Ways to Enjoy Your Own Company (and Actually Love It)
I used to dread being alone—until I found 31 simple ways to actually enjoy my own company. Here’s how I turned quiet time into the best time.
There’s a huge difference between being alone and actually enjoying your own company.
I didn’t always get that.
In the beginning, nights felt too quiet, weekends felt too long, and I caught myself wishing someone was always around.
But then something shifted—I started treating my alone time as something worth savoring, not escaping.
The truth… Learning to enjoy your own company is like building a muscle: it takes practice, little rituals, and a willingness to sit with yourself.
Once you get there, you realize how freeing it is to not need anyone else to feel content.
So if you’ve been wondering how to enjoy being on your own, here are 31 simple, real ways to make your own company feel like the best company.
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1. Reframe “alone time” as your personal gift
Instead of seeing alone time as something missing, start treating it like something extra you’ve been given.
Think of it as the one part of your day where no one’s opinions, moods, or schedules matter—just you.
I like to imagine it as an unopened gift: maybe tonight it looks like a long shower with music, or maybe it’s finally finishing that book on my nightstand.
The moment you shift from “I’m stuck by myself” to “I get this time for me,” everything changes. It’s not loneliness—it’s freedom in disguise.
2. Stop comparing your life to others online
Scrolling through Instagram or TikTok when you’re alone can be brutal.
Everyone seems to be out with friends, traveling, or having the “perfect” life.
But trust me—most of it is staged, filtered, and carefully chosen.
The highlight reel isn’t the full story.
When I caught myself spiraling, I started unfollowing accounts that made me feel “less than” and followed more creators who talk about real solo living.
Suddenly, my feed felt like a friend instead of an enemy.
If you want to enjoy your own company, step one is protecting your headspace.
3. Learn to sit in silence without reaching for your phone
Silence can feel scary at first.
I used to grab my phone the second a quiet moment hit—scrolling, texting, anything to avoid just… being.
But here’s the secret: the more you practice sitting in silence, the more comfortable it feels.
Start small.
Drink your morning coffee without background noise.
Take a shower without music.
Go on a walk without earbuds.
At first, it feels weird, but soon your brain starts to soften into it.
You’ll notice your thoughts more clearly, and you’ll realize that your own company can actually feel grounding, not empty.
4. Practice daily gratitude for your independence
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s missing when you’re alone, but sometimes the best way to enjoy your own company is to remind yourself of what you already have.
I started keeping a little note in my phone where I’d jot down three things I was grateful for each night.
Sometimes it was as simple as “made my favorite pasta” or “had a quiet evening with no interruptions.”
Gratitude shifts your focus—it makes you see being on your own not as a lack, but as a gift.
5. Build small rituals that make you smile
Rituals turn ordinary moments into something special, and when you’re living solo, they’re all yours to design.
Maybe it’s lighting a candle while you journal, making a Sunday morning pancake just for yourself, or playing a certain playlist every time you clean.
These tiny habits give structure to your days, but they also create comfort.
Over time, you start looking forward to them, and that’s when you realize you’re actually enjoying your own company.
Also Read: Nighttime Safety Routine Checklist for Women Who Live Alone
6. Take yourself out on a solo date
This one felt intimidating to me at first, but it turned out to be one of the most freeing things I’ve ever done.
Take yourself to a coffee shop, wander through a museum, or go out for dinner—just you.
At first, you’ll notice the stares you think people are giving you (spoiler: no one cares), but then something shifts.
You start savoring the freedom of choosing what you want without compromise.
Solo dates are like a confidence workout, and the more you do them, the more you realize your own company is enough.
7. Cook a new recipe just for you
Cooking for yourself is one of the most underrated acts of self-care.
Don’t wait for a dinner party or a date to try that recipe you’ve been eyeing—make it for you.
Put on some music, pour yourself a drink, and treat the whole process like an event.
When you sit down to eat, actually plate it nicely instead of just grabbing a fork from the pot.
It’s a reminder that you deserve effort and care, even when no one else is watching.
Also Read: 25+ Quick Recipes for Cooking for One
8. Have a cozy solo movie or Netflix night
Instead of just hitting play while scrolling on your phone, turn it into an experience.
Dim the lights, make popcorn, grab your softest blanket, and set the mood like you’re at your own private theater.
Pick a movie you genuinely love, not just what’s trending, and let yourself get lost in it.
The best part… No debates over what to watch, no interruptions, and yes—you can pause as many times as you want for snacks.
9. Pick up a hobby you’ve always wanted to try
When you live alone, you get the gift of uninterrupted time—and hobbies thrive on that.
Maybe it’s painting, journaling, baking, or even learning guitar.
I used to tell myself I was “too busy” for hobbies, but the truth was I never carved out space for them.
Once I did, I realized how much joy came from creating something just for myself.
A hobby not only fills your time but also gives you a sense of purpose, which makes being alone feel exciting instead of empty.
10. Rearrange or redecorate a small corner of your home
You don’t need a full makeover to make your space feel fresh.
Sometimes just moving furniture around, switching up your bookshelf, or adding a plant can shift the whole vibe.
I love picking one small corner—like my desk or nightstand—and making it feel new.
It’s such a simple way to remind yourself that your home is yours to play with, and it makes spending time there feel even more comforting.
Also Read: 27 First Apartment Decorating Ideas
11. Make a playlist and dance like nobody’s watching
This one sounds cliché, but it works every single time.
Put on the songs that light you up—the ones you secretly love but might feel silly blasting around others.
Close your door, turn the volume up, and just let yourself move.
I’ve had nights where I’ve gone from stressed to laughing in minutes because of this.
When you live alone, you don’t need to impress anyone—you get to be completely yourself, and that’s freedom.
12. Go for a walk with no destination in mind
Not every walk has to be about steps, fitness goals, or errands.
Some of my best solo moments have been just wandering with no plan—listening to the city around me, or noticing little details in my neighborhood I’d usually miss.
When you let yourself wander without a goal, it feels almost childlike, like you’re rediscovering the world on your own terms.
It’s a simple way to enjoy your own company without pressure or expectation.
Also Read: 21 Smart Safety Tips for Walking Alone at Night
13. Try a phone-free evening
It’s wild how much calmer life feels when you put your phone away for a few hours.
No endless scrolling, no checking notifications—just you, your space, and whatever feels good in the moment.
Try cooking dinner without background noise, reading a book, journaling, or even just sitting on your balcony and watching the sky change.
At first, you’ll feel that itch to grab your phone, but give it time.
You’ll notice how much more peaceful your own company feels when it’s not interrupted every few seconds.
14. Treat yourself to a solo shopping trip
Going shopping alone is such an underrated joy.
You get to wander at your own pace, try things on without rushing, and buy exactly what you love.
No second opinions, no waiting around, no guilt if you don’t buy anything at all.
I used to think shopping was more fun with friends, but the truth is, I started enjoying it more solo—because it became about what made me feel good, not about what anyone else thought.
15. Eat out alone at a café or restaurant
This one feels intimidating at first—I remember staring at the menu, worried people were judging me for sitting alone.
But the truth… No one cares.
Once I pushed past that fear, I realized how freeing it is to sit at a table, sip coffee, and people-watch without distraction.
Start small with a café, then build up to a sit-down dinner.
Bring a book or just enjoy the atmosphere.
Eating out alone is such a confidence boost—it makes you feel comfortable in your own skin.
16. Plan a short solo getaway or day trip
You don’t need a big vacation to feel the thrill of traveling alone.
Even hopping on a bus to a nearby town or spending a day exploring a new neighborhood can feel like an adventure.
Pack snacks, put on your favorite playlist, and go where curiosity pulls you.
The best part of solo trips… You get to decide everything—where to stop, how long to stay, and what to skip.
It feels like freedom bottled up in a single day.
17. Learn a new skill or take an online class
Living solo gives you the perfect space to grow without distraction.
Always wanted to learn photography, cooking, or a new language? Sign up for an online course or teach yourself with YouTube.
I remember when I tried baking bread for the first time—mess everywhere, flour in my hair—but the sense of accomplishment was unreal.
Picking up new skills makes your alone time feel productive and exciting instead of empty.
18. Journal your thoughts, ideas, and little wins
Journaling is like having a safe conversation with yourself.
It doesn’t have to be pretty or poetic—just honest.
I like writing about small daily wins, like “I finally fixed that squeaky door” or “I made it through a hard day.”
Over time, your journal becomes proof of your growth.
It’s also one of the best ways to truly enjoy your own company because it helps you hear your own voice without all the noise of the world around you.
19. Do a self-timer photo session in fun outfits
Who says you need someone else to take your pictures?
Set up your phone, try out different outfits, poses, or even silly faces, and snap away.
At first, it might feel awkward, but soon it turns into play.
I’ve had some of my favorite photos come from days like this—no pressure, no audience, just me having fun.
It’s a creative way to celebrate yourself and feel confident in your own skin.
20. Create a bucket list for your solo life
Instead of waiting for the “right time” or the “right person,” start writing down experiences you want to have on your own.
It could be as simple as trying a new restaurant in town or as bold as traveling overseas.
Having a solo bucket list gives you something to look forward to, and crossing things off feels empowering.
It’s like proof that your life is full and exciting even without anyone else tagging along.
21. Meditate, even if it’s just 5 minutes
Meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting perfectly still for an hour.
Start small—five minutes in the morning, just focusing on your breath or listening to a calming sound.
At first, your mind will wander a hundred times, and that’s okay.
With practice, those quiet minutes become grounding.
They help you connect with yourself in a way that feels deeper than just “passing time.”
Honestly, even five minutes of stillness can completely shift the energy of your day.
22. Try yoga or gentle stretching with music
You don’t need a fancy studio or a full routine—just roll out a mat (or even a towel), play some calming music, and stretch your body slowly.
I love doing this at night when the day feels heavy.
Ten minutes of moving gently makes me feel more connected to myself, like I’ve released all the tension I didn’t even know I was holding.
It’s such a soothing way to enjoy your own company and end the day on a peaceful note.
23. Pamper yourself with an at-home spa night
Living alone means you get the bathroom all to yourself—so why not turn it into a spa?
Run a warm bath or take a long shower, use your favorite skincare, light a candle, and put on a soft robe after.
I sometimes even paint my nails or do a face mask while listening to a podcast.
It’s not about being “extra”—it’s about reminding yourself that you deserve care and comfort, even without an occasion.
24. Cook a healthy meal and plate it beautifully
There’s something magical about treating your dinner like it’s special, even if it’s just for you.
Instead of eating straight from the pan (we’ve all done it), set the table, pour a drink, and make it feel like a little celebration.
I once plated a simple salad so nicely it looked like something from a café, and it instantly lifted my mood.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about showing yourself that you’re worth the effort.
25. Start your mornings with something mindful
Instead of rushing straight into emails, chores, or scrolling, try beginning your day with a little ritual that grounds you.
Maybe it’s sipping tea while watching the sunrise, writing down a short intention for the day, or simply sitting in quiet for five minutes.
I started doing this and noticed how it completely changes the tone of my mornings.
It’s a reminder that your day begins with you—not the world pulling you in every direction.
26. Prioritize good sleep and rest
When you live alone, it’s easy to slip into late-night scrolling or binge-watching marathons.
But your body deserves better.
Make rest a non-negotiable—set a bedtime, keep your room cozy, and treat sleep like the sacred reset it really is.
I used to see rest as “wasted time,” but now I see it as one of the best gifts I can give myself.
Nothing makes you enjoy your own company more than waking up refreshed and clear-headed.
27. Write a letter to your future self
This one feels surprisingly powerful.
Grab a notebook (or even just your Notes app) and write to the version of you a year from now.
Share what you’re hoping for, what you’re struggling with, and what you’re proud of.
Seal it away and set a reminder to read it later.
I’ve done this a few times, and when I go back to those letters, it’s like meeting an old friend.
It helps you see how far you’ve come—and makes your solo journey feel meaningful.
28. Start a small creative project
Creativity has this way of making time fly and filling your space with energy.
It doesn’t have to be big—start a scrapbook, paint something messy, write a short story, or even try making a playlist with a theme.
I once started a “solo living scrapbook” with little photos, ticket stubs, and notes, and it became one of my favorite ways to spend an evening.
Creative projects remind you that your alone time can actually be productive and deeply fun.
29. Redo your room to reflect your style
Your space is an extension of you, and when you live alone, you get full control over it.
Move furniture around, add cozy lights, hang art you love, or swap in bedding that feels fresh.
I remember when I added fairy lights above my bed—it instantly changed how I felt about being in my room at night.
A space that feels like you makes being alone there not just comfortable, but joyful.
30. Spend time reflecting with journal prompts
Sometimes you need more than just freewriting—you need questions that help you dig deeper.
Prompts like “What do I love about my life right now?” or “When do I feel most at peace?” can open up whole new ways of seeing yourself.
Reflection makes your alone time meaningful instead of aimless.
It helps you realize you’re not just passing time—you’re building a relationship with yourself.
31. Celebrate your milestones, big or small
Too often, we wait for others to notice our wins before we celebrate them.
But when you live alone, you get to be your own cheerleader.
Cook yourself a nice dinner after finishing a tough week, buy that little treat when you hit a personal goal, or even just raise a glass to making it through a rough day.
Celebrating yourself reminds you that your life is worth honoring, even in the quiet moments.
And honestly, those tiny celebrations make your own company feel like the best place to be.
One Last Thing Before You Go…
Enjoying your own company isn’t about never feeling lonely—it’s about learning to befriend yourself in ways that feel natural and comforting.
Some days you’ll love the silence, some days you’ll crave connection, and that’s okay.
What matters is realizing that your presence alone is enough.
If this list gave you even one idea to try tonight, then you’re already on your way.
Save this guide for the days when being alone feels heavy—because sometimes, you just need a little reminder that you’re already more complete than you think.