Is it weird that I enjoy eating dinner alone more than with friends?

Dear Uncle Gary,

Is it weird that I enjoy eating dinner alone more than with friends?

Signed, Recluse

Dear Recluse,

Not weird. Not even close. In fact, I’d argue it’s a sign of emotional maturity, and possibly excellent taste in dinner companions.

There’s a quiet kind of magic in solo meals. You get to eat what you want, when you want, without negotiating over appetizers or pretending you’re fascinated by someone’s latest juice cleanse. You can savor the silence, binge a show, read a book, or if you’re at a restaurant, you can just look into the crowd of people in the place like a philosopher with a fork.

Now, if you’re only eating alone because the idea of company makes you break out in hives, that’s worth exploring. But if it’s simply your preferred vibe, your way of recharging, reflecting, or just enjoying your own damn company, then lean in. The world’s loud enough. Dinner doesn’t have to be.

Besides, some of the best conversations happen when no one’s talking.

Love, Uncle Gary

P.S. If you ever want to invite someone to dinner who won’t interrupt your chewing with unsolicited life advice, I know a guy.