It is true,
You need male friends, trusting married male friends that help you grow.

I used to be the same way, Ontime. As I became more confident in myself and what I like, I slowly began to attract people like me who also see value in alone time and self growth. When we get together, we do it to enjoy our shared hobbies and to catch up on life and all the lessons we're going through and ways we are growing. I see each friend a few times per month and I know we all value each other but also, like you, our alone time. My friends have remarked how much they enjoy knowing that they can go a couple weeks (or sometimes, a couple months) without us seeing each other but being confident that we'll pick up right where we left off. I feel the same way! I think it comes down to finding people who value the same level of socialization as you do. But you will need to nurture those friendships a lot more in the beginning, so you can see if you really do enjoy each other's company. After that, it will hopefully fall into an easy routine. Good luck!

You may be an introvert and get what I call "peopled out" meaning I can't talk or interact with people any longer in the day. I can be social, talk, happy around others but I need my quiet time. Even some extroverts need quiet time. I think friendships are harder these days because of social media. Many people use social media as their friendship outlet. But what I crave is person to person friendships. Humans need contact with other humans. It is great your spouse is your best friend but what if she died tomorrow? Like me, you'd be without friends or human contact. This is something I am working on myself. Before the stay at home order, I had joined a few social groups. I had health issues and have not been able to pursue this 100%. And I have realized that my spouse is such an extrovert that our partnership, our friendship, sucks away my extra space, or need, for female friends. Not his fault, but I am realizing I have to make more effort in my own life.

I agree that some balance is important..... It's great to do 'noble' work..... I actually met one of my closest friend's doing volunteer work

It's also really nice that you're so close to your partner

I to need a lot of alone time

It's wonderful to have a few good friends though..... Very special relationships... Perhaps invite someone from your ministry out for lunch... You may just have a great time.... Big hug....xo

It felt rewarding to read these comments from each of you! I hope for good, healthy friendships for each of you. It really helps to hear from you who have similar characteristics to mine. I have come to the conclusion that the best friendships that i can develop may be with people in the same field as I.

I think life should be more balanced when you find friends with you. Go and make friends and be happy then after. This will help you to stay more positive.

I like that observation about connectedness. There is value in that for both people.