Here’s my theory. My wife and I love. Absolutely love being alone with one another. We acknowledged from the time we met that we love being together and don’t need the world or society to fulfill, validate or justify our existence. The problem is that we are both tall and very good looking.. Well, she is absolutely beautiful. I am just good looking. We both have (above) genius iq’s and are extremely well versed in academics, art and society. Yes. These are problems when we enjoy being alone. People clamber and claw to be with us. Never ending invitations to do whatever or be wherever. So, you are so right that one must learn to enjoy being with the right people. Politely saying no to people who just want to be with you is difficult. Is this a humble brag. Depends on where you are in life.
@@jasonkrick1614 this is so cute.. I love how raw and truthful this statement is.. introverts - just say "we like to keep to ourselves". us extroverts understand and won't look at you as snobs..
Literally yesterday I was just thinking of "wherever you go, there you are." Love this reflection of synchronicity in our collective consciousness field. Bravissimo!
Today after a generally lovely day at the lake, I sat in my car crying because I saw all those happy families and friend groups playing and laughing and eating together and everywhere I go I am alone. Yes, sometimes I have nice conversations with strangers but noone really knows me and values spending time with me on a deeper level. It made me quite sad.
Thank you for sharing...I have also been feeling this way. I go quiet when I don't feel my time is valued or appreciated. I know this is only temporary, and we will get through this ❤
Sending virtual hugs! Meeting people is a numbers game so if you still haven't met a friend or SO that makes you feel truly seen - don't get discouraged. True human connection can happen at any time if you allow a space for it to grow
Been like this my whole life and I’m in my mid-50’s now. When I was in my 20’s & 30’s it used to get to me. But now I just enjoy traveling the world, eating out, going to museums, parks, places on my own. You just learn to enjoy being with yourself. You can have as much fun and enjoyment as those families and friend groups are. You just be you and enjoy everything life has to offer.
More cinematic just like you promise. Beautiful work Nathan. I think vulnerability is such an important part of being human. We’re often closed off to prevent ourselves from getting hurt, but as you say you miss out on so many wonderful experiences when we refuse to give a piece of ourselves to the universe.
It's all within a balance. I'm learning to offer "bait" to people when it comes to gauging if they are compatible conversationalists or a genuine connection possibility. I've offered too much vulnerability throughout my life. Sometimes people need some time to gradually get used to me too.
I am 61 and have been single by choice for most of my life. It's been the right choice for me. It's not always easy but trying to force myself into a marriage or relationship role was awful. It's true that life is short and you need to do you. Not everyone is designed to get married or raise children.
I never felt more alone than when I was surrounded by people who didn't have similar values as me. Alone time helped me to become my own best friend and naturally attract the right people (so far one person lol) into my life, and I couldn't be more grateful for that! Also I was just thinking this morning that it would be great if you posted a video today and voila, here it is! ❤
*“My alone feels so good, I’ll only have you if you’re sweeter than my solitude.”* ❤ Yes! I'm so grateful I'm an introvert because my super power of *enjoying* being alone helps me be selective about who I choose to share my life with. 🌈😃🤓😻😄💖 I unwittingly allowed a lot of non-reciprocators into my heart before I learned that boundaries are the actions **I** take when my needs are ignored, and that it's OKAY to be the one to leave even long-term relationships. Being willing to confront what I feared it said about me to be the one to leave & to reduce my circle so small has opened up so much peace, healing, and JOY. 🤩 It also made room for more GOOD people to enter my life. Huzzah! 😀
Pure Gold. I'm probably old enough to be your grandfather. I came upon this essence around 45 years ago. I remember the event; having one of those oddly agitated Saturdays alone in my flat. I was drawn to the bathroom mirror where I looked myself deeply in the eyes unflinchingly. Well, we've all had a moment like that but this was next-level. I made peace with myself, warts and all. My life experience pivoted then, like a galaxy pivoting on its axis. Through your work assembling this piece you've put my experience and certainly that of countless others into an audio and video realm, adding textures and smells and colours. Thank you. You're a prince of a guy.
As someone who is basically a hermit, I enjoy being alone more than anything. I love my freedom, I love the peace and quiet and the space that solitude allows me. I've always been this way, even as a little kid. I was happiest when I was walking alone barefoot in the forest, talking to the trees and the animals. When I became a teenager and through my early 20s, I thought something might be wrong with me and so I tried to chase relationships and forced myself to be more social, but always felt so much lonelier in social situations. Getting to really know yourself and understanding what you need is crucial. Be your own best friend. Wishing the best to everyone! 🌲❤️
This truly is beautiful Nathaniel. The key takeaway here that resonated with me a lot was how being alone has helped me be a better person for others, to connect with them, feel present and provide a genuine listening ear that is a rarity in this world. Only from knowing myself, my strengths and faults have I been able to do this. Being content alone is not to be lonely but to be deeply connected with the most important person you could ever know - yourself✨ Thank you for sharing☺️
That's awesome! I realized that as I age more and focus more on my creative hobbies that I spend more time alone since no one else is going to work on those things but me. I have goals and I need to put in the reps to achieve them! Cheers!
This resonates with me so much. A young guy in his late 20s just learning to enjoy his solitude after years of cultural pressure to be with people all the time. You really re-validated how fulfilling life can be loving your solitude.
Probably the most valuable ‘skill’ to learn in this life is to be comfortable with being alone. Thank you for sharing the positive and wholesome aspects of being ‘a loner’💜
That's the thing I think not a lot of people get including myself. You're going to be spending a lot of time with yourself, even if you find a significant other. Learn to be comfortable with yourself because you got a lot of time alone. Cheers!
I’m amazed Nathaniel, not only by the message you convey, but the cinematography, compositions, storytelling and just overall look of the video. Keep it up, love this new direction you’re heading in ❤
Sometimes videos just find you by happy mistakes. I’ve been watching you for awhile, and sometimes, I find that everything gets lost in the algorithm. The last two weeks have been very rough for me and this video found me at the right time. For such a beautifully cinematic and raw cut of being yourself, thanks!
For those wondering where thus video is (mostly) filmed, the answer is Chania, Crete, Greece probably in early spring judging by the heavy coat, the cloudy weather and the lack of large groups of tourists.
This message resonate with me so much. I'm personally feeling this fomo sometimes but still I don't want to indulge in poor quality relationship that leave me mostly unsatisfied and empty. Genuine connections are hard to find wether in friendship or romantic relationship. The more I age the more I am at peace with who I am and what I want in life. Not afraid anymore of loneliness and not trying to fill the void with meaningless interactions just for the sake of having people in my life. Nathaniel's self awareness is incredible giving his young age. As much as this is a wonderful thing I'm sure it can feel like a curse sometimes.
I feel this. Many times I've reached out to friends that I no longer connect with for the sake of not being alone or keeping up. Social media doesn't help when I feel like I'm missing out despite knowing I don't have that connection with them anymore. Thanks for sharing.
really like this new aesthetic! so analog-like and dreamy.. sometimes loneliness simply feels like not having a witness to your moments and experiences.. it's a very amplified feeling after a break up or when a friend moves away. When any experience happens, good or bad, it feels only real when someone else is there to bear witness. I think that's why i'm not too keen on traveling alone, it almost feels like i'm traveling within a vortex or a black hole of anonymity. in a different way, i love being alone in order to have continuous thoughts without interruptions. Aftering coming from a lifetime of overly critical or overbearing family members as housemates, being alone truly feels like the best way to get lost within yourself and breath deeply.
@@jessenceq3250 INFJ 😅 i dont know about enneagram but maybe 4? i read a bit and didn't really identify with it, but Myers-Briggs for sure was accurate! good catch!
Love this! I have always loved being alone, but this year I have really become super content with it. I’ve been living away from my home and family for a few years now, and I always wondered where “home” was for me. I settled on it being wherever I was resting that night/my partner. But in the last few weeks, I have realised that I am my home. It’s such a beautiful feeling ❤ I think one has to go through uncomfortable times, alone, to take full ownership of your own happiness.
Wow. Thank you for this from someone recently afraid of being alone after loving it for years. I needed this to remember that my alone once felt good. While watching this I realized that my same alone that once felt good is still there. And it felt good again. ❤
I have always enjoyed being alone, and I have been for the most part of my last 10 years. But I also realized, that I need to be with others to continue enjoying my time alone. Isolating yourself completely was not the solution for me. But taking some time alone daily really had a positive impact
Nathan, this video was something that I really really needed to hear, and maybe I was sort of starting to figure this out, but hearing it in such a clear way, without fear or anxiety is very relieving. I am just recovering from an intense stress episode that was very difficult for me, and really, it is just beautiful to hear that we are changing creatures, that we can outlive storms no matter how dark or intense they seem, and that we can take baby steps and observe ourselves out of many of the troubling mental states we distract ourselves into. Sincerely, thank you for this
Watching this video right after an almost solo trip (for professional reasons) in Strasbourg (east of France) where i met new people and talked to strangers in german in the train (i had not spoken german for at least a year) makes a lot of sense. Definitively want to travel alone again for a longer period of time because as you said, there is nothing better than this to discover who we really are and to truly connect with people (paradoxically). A french viewer
Thank you Nathaniel. It's been months since I tuned in to your channel. Men's mental health is not spoken enough. And I think this video is a nice contribution to many of us out there.
From the soft edit to the soothing voice, amazing visuals and carefully crafted poetic musings. Everything just hits an amazing synesthetic feeling of being connected to everything at once. Thank you Nathan for helping me appreciate this
I read in a book recently that the difference between being alone and being isolated is how you get there. It's very deep and speaks of a life that you're familiar and unfamiliar with in my shadow. Your efforts are paying off, my friend. Keep Going, Always. 🕯️ 🚪
I've been watching your content for a few years, many topics resonated with me, but this one is truly special. I am also on the path of learning to be truly alone. Not so long ago I moved to Paris for a job, got no friends here, I know almost no one around. And yeah, as a cherry on top of the pie - I don't really speak the language. Sometimes the reality of being alone out here hits me, despite having so many different people surrounding me. Nonetheless, I still see this as an opportunity to get comfortable truly being by myself, so when the time comes, I'll be able to fully enjoy spending time with others as well. Bon courage to anyone who's following a similar path. And thanks for your work, Nathaniel. Keep it up.
I am wondering... How would a world be like in which the societal pressure of being in a romantic relationship wouldn't be so high. Sometimes I feel like I am very happy being single and only spending time with good close friends, but when all of your friends suddenly get a relationship or get married, you have the 'pressure' to do the same, just to not end up lonely!?
Wow, I've been watching your videos for years now, and just UA-cam videos in general to for forever, but this is the first time I'm actually noticing the beauty of frames. It is SO cinematographic. A pleasure to the eye. And the message is incredibly good and positive and helpful. Thank you, good job !
yeah it's kinda crazy seeing how distracted everyone is, they're distracting themselves from themselves... this was a great reminder to embrace alone time
There were so many times during this video that I almost stopped to comment that what you were saying resonated so deeply with me. You are wise beyond your years. As I approach 60, I am so happy that you and the younger generations are discovering what took me so long to get.
I'm graduating in a few weeks and will be moving my whole life to a new city with job being remote. I know it's the perfect opportunity to find and reinvent myself in my young 20's and beyond. Needed this video as a signpost for how to take in this time and make the most of it.
First of all, the quality of your videos are getting better and better! Absolutely amazing! Secondly, it is so nice to see someone your age going through the same things. It makes you feel so seen and just knowing that your are not weird or just boring, because you are not surrounded by a group of people. The older I get, the more I want the quality time, rather than the time around many people, who don't give me the feeling of belonging. This is absolutely beautiful! Thank you for your videos, I really needed this!
I'm finding this as I age into my early 30s which is a stark difference between my mid 20s! Back in grad school, I was trying to be 100% extroverted and tried to surround myself with everyone lol. Now, I'm 28 and have two creative projects that I want to devote more time to causing me to drop off the social ladder quite a bit. Cheers!
My alone feels so good, I'll only have you if you're sweeter than my solitude. couldn't said it better. And it's exactly how I feel. It's 7 years now. In my words: I'll be with you if it's better than being with me.
“I am not a victim of my fears”…or in my case, I am trying not to. I am much older than you Nathan and yet I am learning so much from you. This is very humbling. Merci beaucoup!
beautiful. wherever i go, there i am. the way you repeat it, 3 times, each time with a slight change in tone… i can’t explain how much this video hits home for me. thank you, Nathaniel
I am 15, have loved your work for a while now, and I find your content so inspirational. I always look forward to seeing what you have created and it boggles me how incredible the quality of your work is. Thank you.
Thanks so much for man. So much of it struck close to home and was the exact type of perspective I needed at this moment in my life. Appreciate your wisdom and ability to be vulnerable to allow these viewpoints to be shared and benefit others. The impact is exponential.
Beautifully done. Didn’t watch because I feel lonely, just watched because I love the cinematic quality of your vids. As for being alone - I’d never done so until I was 33! And once I finally had my own apartment, I never felt alone for the 7 years I lived by myself there. I was surprised. Now I realize I’m perfectly fine alone. Yes, I enjoy time with others but I love time spent doing what I want, when I want.
I've been living alone for the past 3-5 years I would wager? It hits different when you visit or live with family for a bit and then go back to being alone. But you get used to it and the freedom it brings. Cheers!
I'm struggling with being alone a lot, even though I live with my family and have a couple close friends. Sometimes it just takes a day without spending time with someone close for me to feel overwhelmingly lonely. I don't feel whole when I'm alone. Only recently have I started learning to value the time I spend with myself, and it's a huge step outside of my comfort zone, but I can already tell it's so worth it; my life feels richer than ever. This video was so important to me, I keep it bookmarked and come back to it whenever I feel like giving up. Thank you so much for your work ♡
It took me a month to see this one … and it’s very relevant to my struggle with being alone since my husband passed away. We loved being together and were best friends. Now living the extreme opposite experience, the mind talk and judgement that narrates the loneliness I am now seeing might be the worst part - thank you for that awareness. William Shakespeare may have said it first in Hamlet: “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so”. Very meaningful video Nathaniel 🙏🏽
Oh boy! Missed this videos! This is the kind of video (albeit with a lot more quality, yes) that changed my life for the good and for good around 5 years ago. Thank you, Nathaniel! You are sincerely one of the most special people in my life. You don't know where you rescued me from back then (and still keep doing it now!).
I genuinely think learning to be alone and happy by yourself is an essential part of a healthy mind. You need time without external impulses to reflect on yourself, your life, where you are and want to go. You need to be able to be satisfied without depending on external things (i find). I think that learning to be alone is truly the biggest catalyst of honest, critical thought and self-reflection and it helps you fogure out what you want from life and what you truly enjoy. Otherwise you're just keeping the train going withour ever standing still, and then you look back with regret. I think that's what hapoened to a lot of people during the lockdown. They never stood still, and when they did, they realized they didn't like where they were at.
I agree, I feel when I’m with people I can’t hold enough to process, and ask myself about the feeling I felt in the moment. It feels just so quick that all you did was all about surviving and fitting in.
Thank you! I've been reflecting on "alonness" for sometime. I'm convinced it's a craft - being genuinely alone and learning how to source power, wisdom, patience from it. It is hard for me as I live in a fast paced city and actually love it :) taking my time to craft such wise and kind silence inside. Thank you. I think I will watch this video again soon. 😊
"...when I am interacting with or reacting to people, there is no space within me to notice or process how I feel. I have to be alone to do that." This is exactly how I've always felt when I am with people. Even during moments when I am genuinely enjoying the company with someone else, I cannot appreciate it fully unless I am on my own and reflecting on the memory. It feels validating to know I am not alone in feeling this way.
This deeply resonated with me.. I've always needed time alone to process how I'm feeling and the why behind my actions. It is absolutely liberating. Staying tapped to our internal compass is key for finding that balance between the messiness of the world outside and our inner anchor. Our inner worlds are diversely rich and beautiful.. I guess the external world and relations we have are just a mere reflection of it. I've read somewhere that people understand things till the level they've met themselves. So,not everyone will reciprocate our depths. But that is just fine..
I really love your films, the direction, cinematography, editing, and aesthetic is amazing. I love them regardless of the content, but that is always so poignant and profound as well. So thank you for your work and your passion.
Journey into yourself until you meet you. Once you do, sit, talk, get clarity of the heart and of the mind. And when understanding returns, hug and come back confidently as friends. All the best Nathaniel.
This really hit a nerve for me. I have been alone for a long time now but I go through phases where I just run, run and run. Only to distract myself. Thanks for posting this video.
I really needed this video. I just ended a damaging engagement and this resignation with me, wholeheartedly. Being unafraid to be alone can teach you true self-love, peace and boundaries. “My alone feels so good, I’ll only have you if you’re sweeter than my solitude.”
Thank you ❤ I needed it today. It's consciousness being present in your life, being your authentic self. Evolution it's part of the journey, even if it's hard sometimes. I'm trying to be my highest version of myself, improving everyday in almost every aspect of my life. Thanks Nathaniel for sharing this.
I have recently been going through the fear of missing out because I have graduated college a year ago I feel like I should more social or have more friends and I am missing out which made me lonely but honestly I have always enjoyed being alone and spending time alone and this helped me affirm that it is okay
Being alone without a phone is sadly foreign. I’d love to experience life primarily without it. I have 6 acres of property, garden, animals, children, sourdough.. lol, and a husband. But… I’m still trapped in my phone throughout the day. It’s maddening.
Thanks. I was watching videos entitled The art of being alone and then you came to my mind and found this video. It’s soothing in a way. I hope that all of you feel comfortable in your on you own skins and never escape from yourselves.
I just discovered your work and I am inspired! The storytelling is exceptional and the message powerful. Thanks for sharing speaking on such a vulnerable (and relatable) topic.
THANK YOU, Nathaniel very precisely put with your beautiful honesty. I love you & even though alone with my cat most of the time in recent years, I do not feel lonely because of your videos. Nothing is permanent & soon we can all return to socialising properly but perhaps choose healthier alone time 💜
My goodness! This is a visual and storytelling masterpiece, Nathaniel! You have done a fantastic job in bringing the audience into your world. Can’t wait for the next one!
You had to ‘learn’ to like being alone? Literally my day is so filled with people grasping for my attention that I crave, absolutely crave, for alone time.
i resonate so much with what you said was "the fear of missing out on experience and connections with people, important moments with those people", Nathan. but as you did, i eventually came to the realization that when i act based on such fears-instead of genuineness-the experience and connection that came out of it often feels... forced, inauthentic, or as if it feels like it's never enough. only after i let go of these fears (i.e. loosen up the exhausted ties of attachment I've had with my loved ones) and be fully comfortable with being on my own; only then i was able to cultivate life experiences and human connections in an... organic, authentic, genuine way. the entire process had been hard, heartbreaking, a horror; but we grow so much coming out of it. great content as always, Nathan!
It's incredible how you love making these types of videos ❤ with you, I started to learn English, and understanding your message makes me fell happy, Thanks Nathaniel.
A very eloquent article. Thank you for sharing your thoughts in my preferred format to consume media (I would never have read this as an article). Love your content 😊, and just if you are interested in how far your content is reaching, I am a 46 year old mother of 2, teacher in New Zealand. Well done Nathaniel, all success to you
This resonates with me so much! I’ve been solo traveling for a month now and have been feeling and experiencing similar things. Loved your storytelling 🥰
Hi Nathaniel, feels like you're describing the journey that I'm in the last year. I found much more peace within myself while spending more time alone! thanks for sharing your story.
I've always enjoyed being alone, I'm learning to enjoy being with people. The right kind of people. 💙
Same here! Here’s to us finding/attracting those gems ☺️💜
where can you find the right people. I cant tell if they still exist.
@@jonb6564 they can be random strangers, you come across in ordinary everyday life.
Here’s my theory. My wife and I love. Absolutely love being alone with one another. We acknowledged from the time we met that we love being together and don’t need the world or society to fulfill, validate or justify our existence. The problem is that we are both tall and very good looking.. Well, she is absolutely beautiful. I am just good looking. We both have (above) genius iq’s and are extremely well versed in academics, art and society. Yes. These are problems when we enjoy being alone. People clamber and claw to be with us. Never ending invitations to do whatever or be wherever. So, you are so right that one must learn to enjoy being with the right people. Politely saying no to people who just want to be with you is difficult. Is this a humble brag. Depends on where you are in life.
@@jasonkrick1614 this is so cute.. I love how raw and truthful this statement is.. introverts - just say "we like to keep to ourselves". us extroverts understand and won't look at you as snobs..
"A life distracted is a life starved of the time and space to simply observe."
This really resonated with me, thank you Nathaniel!
Literally yesterday I was just thinking of "wherever you go, there you are." Love this reflection of synchronicity in our collective consciousness field. Bravissimo!
Geeeez the cinematography in this was UNREAL Nathaniel!! The story, the shots, the music: *chef's kiss*!
Today after a generally lovely day at the lake, I sat in my car crying because I saw all those happy families and friend groups playing and laughing and eating together and everywhere I go I am alone. Yes, sometimes I have nice conversations with strangers but noone really knows me and values spending time with me on a deeper level. It made me quite sad.
Literally had the same experience! I feel this so much and have been struggling with this a lot lately.
Thank you for sharing...I have also been feeling this way. I go quiet when I don't feel my time is valued or appreciated. I know this is only temporary, and we will get through this ❤
Sending virtual hugs! Meeting people is a numbers game so if you still haven't met a friend or SO that makes you feel truly seen - don't get discouraged. True human connection can happen at any time if you allow a space for it to grow
Been like this my whole life and I’m in my mid-50’s now. When I was in my 20’s & 30’s it used to get to me. But now I just enjoy traveling the world, eating out, going to museums, parks, places on my own. You just learn to enjoy being with yourself. You can have as much fun and enjoyment as those families and friend groups are. You just be you and enjoy everything life has to offer.
More cinematic just like you promise. Beautiful work Nathan. I think vulnerability is such an important part of being human. We’re often closed off to prevent ourselves from getting hurt, but as you say you miss out on so many wonderful experiences when we refuse to give a piece of ourselves to the universe.
Can't agree enough 💖👌✨
Well said! Hurt, pain and discomfort aren't things to constantly run from. They are teachers and also make the good things even sweeter by contrast.
It's all within a balance. I'm learning to offer "bait" to people when it comes to gauging if they are compatible conversationalists or a genuine connection possibility. I've offered too much vulnerability throughout my life. Sometimes people need some time to gradually get used to me too.
@@coolbreeze5683That’s why all the people with PTSD are so happy.
if you believe him. I think he is full of it.
I am 61 and have been single by choice for most of my life. It's been the right choice for me. It's not always easy but trying to force myself into a marriage or relationship role was awful. It's true that life is short and you need to do you. Not everyone is designed to get married or raise children.
I never felt more alone than when I was surrounded by people who didn't have similar values as me. Alone time helped me to become my own best friend and naturally attract the right people (so far one person lol) into my life, and I couldn't be more grateful for that! Also I was just thinking this morning that it would be great if you posted a video today and voila, here it is! ❤
*“My alone feels so good, I’ll only have you if you’re sweeter than my solitude.”* ❤ Yes! I'm so grateful I'm an introvert because my super power of *enjoying* being alone helps me be selective about who I choose to share my life with. 🌈😃🤓😻😄💖 I unwittingly allowed a lot of non-reciprocators into my heart before I learned that boundaries are the actions **I** take when my needs are ignored, and that it's OKAY to be the one to leave even long-term relationships. Being willing to confront what I feared it said about me to be the one to leave & to reduce my circle so small has opened up so much peace, healing, and JOY. 🤩
It also made room for more GOOD people to enter my life. Huzzah! 😀
Pure Gold.
I'm probably old enough to be your grandfather. I came upon this essence around 45 years ago. I remember the event; having one of those oddly agitated Saturdays alone in my flat. I was drawn to the bathroom mirror where I looked myself deeply in the eyes unflinchingly. Well, we've all had a moment like that but this was next-level. I made peace with myself, warts and all. My life experience pivoted then, like a galaxy pivoting on its axis. Through your work assembling this piece you've put my experience and certainly that of countless others into an audio and video realm, adding textures and smells and colours. Thank you. You're a prince of a guy.
As someone who is basically a hermit, I enjoy being alone more than anything. I love my freedom, I love the peace and quiet and the space that solitude allows me.
I've always been this way, even as a little kid. I was happiest when I was walking alone barefoot in the forest, talking to the trees and the animals. When I became a teenager and through my early 20s, I thought something might be wrong with me and so I tried to chase relationships and forced myself to be more social, but always felt so much lonelier in social situations.
Getting to really know yourself and understanding what you need is crucial. Be your own best friend. Wishing the best to everyone! 🌲❤️
So I'm not the only one 😂❤
Im the same, but my issue is I dump women when it starts to get too serious and constraining on my freedom. How do you approach this?
@@Staroyfind someone who needs a lot of alone time too and is understanding of yours
same.
@@Staroy do you think avoidant attachment is at play? Also, make boundaries clear in a kind and consistent way.
This truly is beautiful Nathaniel. The key takeaway here that resonated with me a lot was how being alone has helped me be a better person for others, to connect with them, feel present and provide a genuine listening ear that is a rarity in this world. Only from knowing myself, my strengths and faults have I been able to do this. Being content alone is not to be lonely but to be deeply connected with the most important person you could ever know - yourself✨ Thank you for sharing☺️
That's awesome! I realized that as I age more and focus more on my creative hobbies that I spend more time alone since no one else is going to work on those things but me. I have goals and I need to put in the reps to achieve them! Cheers!
Dude, where are you? are you okay? we missed your videos!
I didn't , he's loser 😂😂
@@visalaaksoyou’re really cool!😄
This resonates with me so much. A young guy in his late 20s just learning to enjoy his solitude after years of cultural pressure to be with people all the time. You really re-validated how fulfilling life can be loving your solitude.
Probably the most valuable ‘skill’ to learn in this life is to be comfortable with being alone. Thank you for sharing the positive and wholesome aspects of being ‘a loner’💜
That's the thing I think not a lot of people get including myself. You're going to be spending a lot of time with yourself, even if you find a significant other. Learn to be comfortable with yourself because you got a lot of time alone. Cheers!
@@thelifewithnate THANKS...GREAT ADVICE...but...any ideas on the "HOW TO DO IT " THING A BA GING"
I’m amazed Nathaniel, not only by the message you convey, but the cinematography, compositions, storytelling and just overall look of the video. Keep it up, love this new direction you’re heading in ❤
I'm grateful this video came out. Thank you for the kind words, Nathaniel!
Incredibly wise for someone so young!
Sometimes videos just find you by happy mistakes. I’ve been watching you for awhile, and sometimes, I find that everything gets lost in the algorithm. The last two weeks have been very rough for me and this video found me at the right time. For such a beautifully cinematic and raw cut of being yourself, thanks!
For those wondering where thus video is (mostly) filmed, the answer is Chania, Crete, Greece probably in early spring judging by the heavy coat, the cloudy weather and the lack of large groups of tourists.
This message resonate with me so much.
I'm personally feeling this fomo sometimes but still I don't want to indulge in poor quality relationship that leave me mostly unsatisfied and empty.
Genuine connections are hard to find wether in friendship or romantic relationship. The more I age the more I am at peace with who I am and what I want in life. Not afraid anymore of loneliness and not trying to fill the void with meaningless interactions just for the sake of having people in my life.
Nathaniel's self awareness is incredible giving his young age. As much as this is a wonderful thing I'm sure it can feel like a curse sometimes.
I feel this. Many times I've reached out to friends that I no longer connect with for the sake of not being alone or keeping up. Social media doesn't help when I feel like I'm missing out despite knowing I don't have that connection with them anymore. Thanks for sharing.
really like this new aesthetic! so analog-like and dreamy..
sometimes loneliness simply feels like not having a witness to your moments and experiences.. it's a very amplified feeling after a break up or when a friend moves away. When any experience happens, good or bad, it feels only real when someone else is there to bear witness. I think that's why i'm not too keen on traveling alone, it almost feels like i'm traveling within a vortex or a black hole of anonymity.
in a different way, i love being alone in order to have continuous thoughts without interruptions. Aftering coming from a lifetime of overly critical or overbearing family members as housemates, being alone truly feels like the best way to get lost within yourself and breath deeply.
I could have written this comment myself. What MBTI personality type and Enneagram are ya, if you know? I'm an INFJ Enneagram 6.
@@jessenceq3250 INFJ 😅 i dont know about enneagram but maybe 4? i read a bit and didn't really identify with it, but Myers-Briggs for sure was accurate! good catch!
At 31, I realised the more we are around others, we run away from our own issue...if they are not adding any value in life. Its better to be alone.
By far one of the best videos out there. The cinematography is insane.
I’m from Somalia 🇸🇴. I love being alone, just like you. You don't need anyone but yourself to be kind and learn about yourself and it's a good lesson
I just want to say that I genuinely smiled the whole video through. Thank you for making me feel understood Nat ❤
Love this! I have always loved being alone, but this year I have really become super content with it.
I’ve been living away from my home and family for a few years now, and I always wondered where “home” was for me. I settled on it being wherever I was resting that night/my partner. But in the last few weeks, I have realised that I am my home. It’s such a beautiful feeling ❤
I think one has to go through uncomfortable times, alone, to take full ownership of your own happiness.
Wow. Thank you for this from someone recently afraid of being alone after loving it for years. I needed this to remember that my alone once felt good. While watching this I realized that my same alone that once felt good is still there. And it felt good again. ❤
I have always enjoyed being alone, and I have been for the most part of my last 10 years. But I also realized, that I need to be with others to continue enjoying my time alone. Isolating yourself completely was not the solution for me. But taking some time alone daily really had a positive impact
by far, one of my favourite video you’ve ever made.
Nathan, this video was something that I really really needed to hear, and maybe I was sort of starting to figure this out, but hearing it in such a clear way, without fear or anxiety is very relieving.
I am just recovering from an intense stress episode that was very difficult for me, and really, it is just beautiful to hear that we are changing creatures, that we can outlive storms no matter how dark or intense they seem, and that we can take baby steps and observe ourselves out of many of the troubling mental states we distract ourselves into.
Sincerely, thank you for this
Watching this video right after an almost solo trip (for professional reasons) in Strasbourg (east of France) where i met new people and talked to strangers in german in the train (i had not spoken german for at least a year) makes a lot of sense.
Definitively want to travel alone again for a longer period of time because as you said, there is nothing better than this to discover who we really are and to truly connect with people (paradoxically).
A french viewer
Thank you Nathaniel. It's been months since I tuned in to your channel. Men's mental health is not spoken enough. And I think this video is a nice contribution to many of us out there.
From the soft edit to the soothing voice, amazing visuals and carefully crafted poetic musings. Everything just hits an amazing synesthetic feeling of being connected to everything at once. Thank you Nathan for helping me appreciate this
As someone who’s been a loner for life, I relate to this so much! Thank you for making these beautiful videos 🙌🏼
Where were you by the sea?
Being truly alone is a gift but it’s also a practice because there are so many distractions from truly facing yourself in the mirror.
I read in a book recently that the difference between being alone and being isolated is how you get there.
It's very deep and speaks of a life that you're familiar and unfamiliar with in my shadow. Your efforts are paying off, my friend.
Keep Going, Always. 🕯️ 🚪
I've been watching your content for a few years, many topics resonated with me, but this one is truly special.
I am also on the path of learning to be truly alone. Not so long ago I moved to Paris for a job, got no friends here, I know almost no one around. And yeah, as a cherry on top of the pie - I don't really speak the language. Sometimes the reality of being alone out here hits me, despite having so many different people surrounding me.
Nonetheless, I still see this as an opportunity to get comfortable truly being by myself, so when the time comes, I'll be able to fully enjoy spending time with others as well.
Bon courage to anyone who's following a similar path. And thanks for your work, Nathaniel. Keep it up.
I am wondering... How would a world be like in which the societal pressure of being in a romantic relationship wouldn't be so high. Sometimes I feel like I am very happy being single and only spending time with good close friends, but when all of your friends suddenly get a relationship or get married, you have the 'pressure' to do the same, just to not end up lonely!?
Wow, I've been watching your videos for years now, and just UA-cam videos in general to for forever, but this is the first time I'm actually noticing the beauty of frames. It is SO cinematographic. A pleasure to the eye. And the message is incredibly good and positive and helpful. Thank you, good job !
yeah it's kinda crazy seeing how distracted everyone is, they're distracting themselves from themselves... this was a great reminder to embrace alone time
There were so many times during this video that I almost stopped to comment that what you were saying resonated so deeply with me.
You are wise beyond your years. As I approach 60, I am so happy that you and the younger generations are discovering what took me so long to get.
I'm graduating in a few weeks and will be moving my whole life to a new city with job being remote. I know it's the perfect opportunity to find and reinvent myself in my young 20's and beyond. Needed this video as a signpost for how to take in this time and make the most of it.
First of all, the quality of your videos are getting better and better! Absolutely amazing! Secondly, it is so nice to see someone your age going through the same things. It makes you feel so seen and just knowing that your are not weird or just boring, because you are not surrounded by a group of people. The older I get, the more I want the quality time, rather than the time around many people, who don't give me the feeling of belonging. This is absolutely beautiful! Thank you for your videos, I really needed this!
I'm finding this as I age into my early 30s which is a stark difference between my mid 20s! Back in grad school, I was trying to be 100% extroverted and tried to surround myself with everyone lol. Now, I'm 28 and have two creative projects that I want to devote more time to causing me to drop off the social ladder quite a bit. Cheers!
My alone feels so good, I'll only have you if you're sweeter than my solitude. couldn't said it better. And it's exactly how I feel. It's 7 years now. In my words: I'll be with you if it's better than being with me.
“I am not a victim of my fears”…or in my case, I am trying not to. I am much older than you Nathan and yet I am learning so much from you. This is very humbling. Merci beaucoup!
Man! It's a always a pleasure watching someone enjoying our country, Greece! 🇬🇷
I miss the feeling of having one True friend. Currently I find myself in similiar 'lone' shoes breaking the ice going on trough life.
beautiful. wherever i go, there i am. the way you repeat it, 3 times, each time with a slight change in tone… i can’t explain how much this video hits home for me. thank you, Nathaniel
I am 15, have loved your work for a while now, and I find your content so inspirational. I always look forward to seeing what you have created and it boggles me how incredible the quality of your work is. Thank you.
I feel the same
Thanks so much for man. So much of it struck close to home and was the exact type of perspective I needed at this moment in my life. Appreciate your wisdom and ability to be vulnerable to allow these viewpoints to be shared and benefit others. The impact is exponential.
Beautifully done. Didn’t watch because I feel lonely, just watched because I love the cinematic quality of your vids.
As for being alone - I’d never done so until I was 33! And once I finally had my own apartment, I never felt alone for the 7 years I lived by myself there. I was surprised. Now I realize I’m perfectly fine alone. Yes, I enjoy time with others but I love time spent doing what I want, when I want.
I've been living alone for the past 3-5 years I would wager? It hits different when you visit or live with family for a bit and then go back to being alone. But you get used to it and the freedom it brings. Cheers!
I'm struggling with being alone a lot, even though I live with my family and have a couple close friends. Sometimes it just takes a day without spending time with someone close for me to feel overwhelmingly lonely. I don't feel whole when I'm alone. Only recently have I started learning to value the time I spend with myself, and it's a huge step outside of my comfort zone, but I can already tell it's so worth it; my life feels richer than ever. This video was so important to me, I keep it bookmarked and come back to it whenever I feel like giving up. Thank you so much for your work ♡
It took me a month to see this one … and it’s very relevant to my struggle with being alone since my husband passed away. We loved being together and were best friends. Now living the extreme opposite experience, the mind talk and judgement that narrates the loneliness I am now seeing might be the worst part - thank you for that awareness. William Shakespeare may have said it first in Hamlet: “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so”. Very meaningful video Nathaniel 🙏🏽
Oh boy! Missed this videos! This is the kind of video (albeit with a lot more quality, yes) that changed my life for the good and for good around 5 years ago. Thank you, Nathaniel! You are sincerely one of the most special people in my life. You don't know where you rescued me from back then (and still keep doing it now!).
Beautiful, it is remarkable that art like this can be shared and impact so many around the world. Thank you
I genuinely think learning to be alone and happy by yourself is an essential part of a healthy mind.
You need time without external impulses to reflect on yourself, your life, where you are and want to go. You need to be able to be satisfied without depending on external things (i find).
I think that learning to be alone is truly the biggest catalyst of honest, critical thought and self-reflection and it helps you fogure out what you want from life and what you truly enjoy.
Otherwise you're just keeping the train going withour ever standing still, and then you look back with regret. I think that's what hapoened to a lot of people during the lockdown. They never stood still, and when they did, they realized they didn't like where they were at.
I agree, I feel when I’m with people I can’t hold enough to process, and ask myself about the feeling I felt in the moment. It feels just so quick that all you did was all about surviving and fitting in.
Man you tell the best stories that are true to life,
Your observations and thoughts on everythings is so refreshing and soul touching. ❤
I LOVE this kid❤!
Wishing you all the best, Genius!!
Thank you! I've been reflecting on "alonness" for sometime. I'm convinced it's a craft - being genuinely alone and learning how to source power, wisdom, patience from it. It is hard for me as I live in a fast paced city and actually love it :) taking my time to craft such wise and kind silence inside. Thank you. I think I will watch this video again soon. 😊
"...when I am interacting with or reacting to people, there is no space within me to notice or process how I feel. I have to be alone to do that." This is exactly how I've always felt when I am with people. Even during moments when I am genuinely enjoying the company with someone else, I cannot appreciate it fully unless I am on my own and reflecting on the memory. It feels validating to know I am not alone in feeling this way.
This deeply resonated with me.. I've always needed time alone to process how I'm feeling and the why behind my actions. It is absolutely liberating. Staying tapped to our internal compass is key for finding that balance between the messiness of the world outside and our inner anchor. Our inner worlds are diversely rich and beautiful.. I guess the external world and relations we have are just a mere reflection of it. I've read somewhere that people understand things till the level they've met themselves. So,not everyone will reciprocate our depths. But that is just fine..
I love being on my own. Some people need others. They cant stand being alone. I live my own space. I do what i like when i like.
You have miraculously described introversion. It's home within and it's the greatest learning experience ever. Bravo!!
I really love your films, the direction, cinematography, editing, and aesthetic is amazing. I love them regardless of the content, but that is always so poignant and profound as well. So thank you for your work and your passion.
I relate to this video on a very deep, intimate level
"If you are lonely when you're alone, you are in bad company." - Jean-Paul Sartre
This video just felt like a big hug. Thank you so much Nathaniel. This is the mindset that I'm currently in and you've explained it so gracefully.
This was beautifully written and shot. Orange looks good on you.
Such a cute story of your way to love being alone. I’m loving and enjoying my time with my self too.
Journey into yourself until you meet you. Once you do, sit, talk, get clarity of the heart and of the mind.
And when understanding returns, hug and come back confidently as friends.
All the best Nathaniel.
This really hit a nerve for me. I have been alone for a long time now but I go through phases where I just run, run and run. Only to distract myself. Thanks for posting this video.
The time you have on this planet and in this body is limited don't spend it running from your own self.
- Nathaniel Drew [ A digital Nomad ]
I really needed this video.
I just ended a damaging engagement and this resignation with me, wholeheartedly. Being unafraid to be alone can teach you true self-love, peace and boundaries. “My alone feels so good, I’ll only have you if you’re sweeter than my solitude.”
This is one of the most beautiful videos on UA-cam. Much love & respect ✌🏻
“I’m discovering that I don’t have to dislike that person that I see looking back at me”
THAT HIT ME DEEP….
Thank you ❤ I needed it today. It's consciousness being present in your life, being your authentic self. Evolution it's part of the journey, even if it's hard sometimes. I'm trying to be my highest version of myself, improving everyday in almost every aspect of my life. Thanks Nathaniel for sharing this.
I have recently been going through the fear of missing out because I have graduated college a year ago I feel like I should more social or have more friends and I am missing out which made me lonely but honestly I have always enjoyed being alone and spending time alone and this helped me affirm that it is okay
Being alone without a phone is sadly foreign. I’d love to experience life primarily without it. I have 6 acres of property, garden, animals, children, sourdough.. lol, and a husband. But… I’m still trapped in my phone throughout the day. It’s maddening.
Put it away? Oh b/x of kids you need it. Place it somewhere like old fashioned phones were stationary.
The most beautiful and thought provoking video I have watched in a while. Please please never stop making these! Love from India♥️
Thanks. I was watching videos entitled The art of being alone and then you came to my mind and found this video. It’s soothing in a way. I hope that all of you feel comfortable in your on you own skins and never escape from yourselves.
Firstly, Kudos on the quality of this video. Secondly, It’s a topic that’s really resonating with me right now. I loved your story.
Very relatable for sure.
I just discovered your work and I am inspired! The storytelling is exceptional and the message powerful. Thanks for sharing speaking on such a vulnerable (and relatable) topic.
THANK YOU, Nathaniel very precisely put with your beautiful honesty. I love you & even though alone with my cat most of the time in recent years, I do not feel lonely because of your videos. Nothing is permanent & soon we can all return to socialising properly but perhaps choose healthier alone time 💜
It's very interesting, you're the last person I would think that is running from who they are, love the IMAX 70mm feel to your new videos!
My goodness! This is a visual and storytelling masterpiece, Nathaniel! You have done a fantastic job in bringing the audience into your world. Can’t wait for the next one!
You had to ‘learn’ to like being alone? Literally my day is so filled with people grasping for my attention that I crave, absolutely crave, for alone time.
i resonate so much with what you said was "the fear of missing out on experience and connections with people, important moments with those people", Nathan. but as you did, i eventually came to the realization that when i act based on such fears-instead of genuineness-the experience and connection that came out of it often feels... forced, inauthentic, or as if it feels like it's never enough. only after i let go of these fears (i.e. loosen up the exhausted ties of attachment I've had with my loved ones) and be fully comfortable with being on my own; only then i was able to cultivate life experiences and human connections in an... organic, authentic, genuine way. the entire process had been hard, heartbreaking, a horror; but we grow so much coming out of it. great content as always, Nathan!
It's incredible how you love making these types of videos ❤ with you, I started to learn English, and understanding your message makes me fell happy, Thanks Nathaniel.
A very eloquent article. Thank you for sharing your thoughts in my preferred format to consume media (I would never have read this as an article). Love your content 😊, and just if you are interested in how far your content is reaching, I am a 46 year old mother of 2, teacher in New Zealand. Well done Nathaniel, all success to you
This resonates with me so much!
I’ve been solo traveling for a month now and have been feeling and experiencing similar things.
Loved your storytelling 🥰
Hi Nathaniel, feels like you're describing the journey that I'm in the last year. I found much more peace within myself while spending more time alone! thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you making me not feel so alone, and giving me motivation to keep pushing forward.❤❤
Your videos are pure gold ❤
I also want to remind Everyone That there is a fine line between becoming alone and being self absorbed
Please do a short a film. The way you frame part of your life is incredibly beautiful and authentic
this is the video i needed right now
i felt this within my soul, everything
thank you Nathaniel
I've been needing a lot of alone time recently and couldn't figure out why. Thank you for giving me the words to figure out why.