How do you deal with loneliness and lack of intimacy?

For those of you who have actually spent years without intimate relationships, how do you deal with your emotional needs? Do you not wish you had someone? Do you not get lonely? Do you distract yourself, and if yes, with what? Or you don't feel it anymore?

I understand that one can't have both independence and intimacy at the same time. I understand that intimacy requires vulnerability, one can't have emotionally meaningful relationships without making yourself vulnerable.

I'm looking for personal answers, if anybody is comfortable sharing, I'm not all that interested in boastful alpha-talk.