Do you thrive on solitude? Are social interactions draining? Do your hobbies make you an old woman/old man? Is your idea of fun staying home or participating in an activity where no one expects anything from you? Are your coworkers confused by your idea of “fun?” Do you feel judged by others for being content with your simple life? Do you prefer the company of your cat over people?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, you don’t have time for the young people’s games. I’ve been feeling eighty-seven since I was six years old. I pulled my desk beside the teacher in kindergarten because the kids at my table were talking too much. I only had a couple friends in elementary school. I got bullied by a girl in my third grade class for wearing a matching sweatsuit with flowers on it. I started quilting, making pillows, and playing and writing music when I was fourteen. I always enjoyed time alone more than with friends or would rather have a couple close friends. I never smoked, drank, or had sex like most of the people my age. I despised school. I wanted to just do the work and go home.

I just always felt different. I had things in common with the few friends I did have, but I never felt like many people felt as deeply or as often as I did. Still, to this day, my best friends are my siblings, first cousin, and two guys I’ve been friends with my entire life.

For me, as an adult, I don’t forsee myself making new, long-lasting friendships. I believe this for a few reasons.

1. At this point in my life, I don’t want to make time for it. I’m a single mom with kids and I’m content with the way I spend the little bit of spare time I have.
2. You can’t trust people. I’ve had so many “friends” suddenly stop talking to me or cancel plans. I had one coworker I loved talking to. She was friends with several coworkers and often saw them outside of work. I invited her to the park with me and my kids a few times and nothing ever came of it. Yet she talked to others as if they were her best friends and treated me as a good friend at work.
3. Most people only want small talk.
4. I’m not trendy or care about the latest viral video. Whatever is going on on social media platforms doesn’t interest me a bit. I’d rather talk about gardening or paint a canvas with my BFF than care about what celebrities are saying on the internet.
5. I don’t thrive on social interaction. It tends to drain me and often causes me anxiety. I’m most productive and energized when I’m alone.

I’ve been called a granny several times. Especially at my jobs where I talk to the most people. I almost feel bad for people that have to have constant stimulation or need to be in the company of other. I imagine it gets boring at times when you don’t have anything to do. But I don’t usually feel that way. I’m just content.

I’m aware all people are different and I’m not here to say my way is the best way. I’m just here to make people aware that it is perfectly fine enjoying your own company and doing things alone. You aren’t depending on others and they aren’t depending on you. It truly can be peaceful.