Am I Lonely When I Say I Don’t Need Friends Anymore?

It's perfectly fine to feel this way. You don't need friends if you don't want them, and it's a subjective feeling that can change over time. Until then, focus on yourself and don't rush into making friends if it doesn't feel right for you.

Feeling Lonely but Not Wanting Friends

Feeling lonely because you don't have friends anymore doesn't necessarily mean that you need them. Sometimes, the workload of maintaining relationships can be overwhelming. If you find that the effort of working through a friendship isn't worth it, it's okay to prioritize your time and energy on other things. Time will tell if you do genuinely need friendship in the future.

The Pain of Past Relationships

Many people fear getting hurt again, which can lead to a desire to stay away from others. This can especially be true if past relationships have caused pain. If you've been hurt by people in your life, you may feel like people are garbage and that you don't deserve them. However, it's important to recognize that not everyone will hurt you, and there are wonderful people out there who can be supportive and positive.

Learning to Protect Yourself

Learning to protect yourself and keep your life private is essential. You've learned to shield yourself from the negativity that some people bring into your life. Telling "no" to those who would destroy your happiness is a healthy step. Your life and your choices don't need to be dictated by others. You are in control of your choices and deserve to live a life that brings you joy and peace.

Self-Validation Beyond Friendship

Some people seek friends primarily as a source of validation. They believe that having friends makes them a worthy person, rather than someone who feels alone and friendless. This mindset is especially common among younger people, as friendship often plays a crucial role in their self-esteem. However, as you grow older, your focus may shift away from friendship as a way to boost your self-esteem.

If you've always been okay with being alone or have never felt the need for friends, you may not experience a strong motivation to maintain friendships. As you mature, you may find that you value your alone time more, and the idea of friends being necessary for your happiness becomes less important.

Embracing Introversion

Introversion can be a blessing, allowing you to do what you want without seeking approval from others. Your daughter and son bring joy and meaning to your life, and that's enough. People may not be worth your time, and you shouldn't let them steal your happiness. Focus on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Remember, it's okay to say you don't need friends right now. Give yourself the space to focus on your growth, happiness, and personal well-being. Trust that your needs and feelings are valid, and don't rush into something that doesn't feel right for you.