The Rise of Loneliness Influencers on TikTok

A personal essay explores the phenomenon of 'loneliness influencers' on TikTok, who document their solitary lives. The author, an only child living alone after a breakup, finds solace in creators like Lana Isa (@lanasololife), who films mundane activities such as making waffle fries or returning packages. The essay contrasts the author's own efforts to follow Nora Ephron's advice of making proper meals with Isa's embrace of convenience foods, suggesting a radical rejection of performative self-care. Other influencers mentioned include Devon and Paulina Cee. The author reflects on the lack of pretense and the honesty about loneliness, noting that these creators do not always present a happy facade. The piece concludes that despite having a full social life, the author values the solidarity of seeing women live alone without constant cheerfulness.