Frida Kahlo. Ernest Hemingway. Amelia Earhart. If any of these names spark a feeling of instant recognition or kinship, there’s a good chance you’re a little bit like them. You might be a lone wolf.
Some of history’s most well-recognised lone wolves were admired for their free-thinking ideas, adventurous and independent spirit, pioneering attitudes, and of course, their tendency to go things alone.
In a metaphorical sense, the lone wolf is a creature that lives a solitary life, following the path it has carved for itself.
This wolf embodies the essence of individuality, self-sufficiency, and a clear sense of direction.
In this article, we’ll explore eight traits that suggest you might be a lone wolf:
1) You’re not afraid to spend time on your own. In fact, you value it
This one is the most obvious hallmark of a lone wolf. Solitude is not loneliness for a lone wolf. Rather, it’s a cherished opportunity for introspection and self-discovery.
Lone wolves find solace in their own company and have learned that solitude actually gifts them the time and space to tap into their inner world, which can often lead to artistry, innovation, and self-awareness. Yes, just like Frida Kahlo.
I have an artist friend who is super-talented. But her abilities lie beyond raw talent, she immerses herself in the world of her creations day after day.
She spends hours alone in her little studio, painting stunning landscapes that reflect her innermost thoughts and emotions.
Her art is proof of the creativity that solitude can nurture.
2) You have a strong, clearly defined purpose in your life
A lone wolf’s path begins with a clear sense of purpose.
This kind of direction guides them through life’s twists and turns, ensuring they remain on the path they’ve chosen, even when the world tries to heave them in a million different directions.
If you can relate to this, you might find that you’re deeply committed to your missions as a person. And you might even find that people see this as a little intense at times.
Regardless, you’re not someone who gets easily distracted by external influences or people, and you’re not one to give up, either.
3) Conformity gives you the ick
Does the idea of molding yourself to fit into a societal mold make you shudder? Then there’s a good chance you’re a lone wolf.
There’s a reason conformity is a word that lone wolves often find as appealing as a severely overcooked dinner— it’s because they prefer to be true to themselves, even if it means standing alone (even when things get tough)
They prize their individuality and authenticity above everything else.
Conforming to societal norms often feels like a betrayal of their true selves.
4) You’re quite particular about who you spend your time with
There is often a misconception that lone wolves are recluses or complete loners, but this is not always the case.
Lone wolves are simply far more selective about the company they choose to keep.
They understand that the people they surround themselves with can have a great bearing on their journey and on their mental health.
Because of this, they seek out companions who align with their specific values and goals, creating deep and meaningful connections where possible.
I have a friend, a guy who genuinely values quality over quantity in his friendships.
He invests his time in people who share his passion for philanthropy, community service, and generally, doing good in the world.
While other people might choose a wide circle of acquaintances, his tight-knit group of friends support him in his mission to make the world a nicer place to live in.
He might be a lone wolf, in spirit, but he knows that even the most independent person sometimes needs their tribe.
5) You’re a highly individualistic person
Individualism is the very backbone of the lone wolf’s identity.
Lone wolves tend to embrace their individualism as a source of inspiration and motivation, allowing them to make their way through unconventional courses with confidence and strength.
If this resonates with you, you are likely to prioritize your beliefs, ideas, and interests over conformity. Or in other words, you forge your own unique path in life.
6) You’ve always been able to turn away from peer pressure
Going back to point 2, many lone wolves have a clear, deeply-ingrained sense of purpose in their lives.
Due to this strong conviction, peer pressure is pretty much water off a duck’s back for a lone wolf— and it might have even been something that started as early as their schooling days.
The lone wolf has the capacity to turn away from outside influences that do not sync up with their values or goals.
Lone wolves remain true to their convictions, even when there’s extreme temptation present.
This resilience is moored in their commitment to their own personal journey.
7) You enjoy making your own decisions, and the process that this involves
For a lone wolf, decision-making is not just a task to tick off or a burden to bear, it’s a process of self-discovery and empowerment.
Lone wolves find joy in making choices because it allows them to exercise their autonomy and assert their unique identity.
Each decision represents a step forward, a move toward self-actualization, and a testament to their commitment to authenticity.
8) You’re highly self-sufficient, sometimes even in survival situations
Self-sufficiency is a tell-tale sign of the lone wolf archetype.
They are highly resourceful and capable, relying on their practical skills and basic instincts to navigate life’s challenges, even when the odds are stacked against them.
Lone wolves value their ability to be self-reliant, seeing it as a sign of resilience.
I once had a friend who endured a traumatic hiking trip in the Alaskan wilderness. When she was only in her mid-twenties, she set off on the expedition of a lifetime. Then a catastrophic snowstorm hit.
She was hopelessly lost for hours, but instead of succumbing to blind panic, she tapped into her survival skills and training, building a shelter, and generating heat while she waited out the worst of it.
And guess what, she made it out.
Her self-sufficiency that day not only saved her life but also became a powerful testament to her lone wolf spirit.
Conclusion
To sum things up, we live in a world that often celebrates conformity and collective thinking.
However, the lone wolf stands apart from the rest. They are a symbol of individuality, purpose, and self-sufficiency.
If you see yourself in the traits discussed in this article, then go ahead and embrace your inner lone wolf. The world is your wilderness, just waiting to be explored on your own terms.
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