I can't add a whole lot to the thoughtful comments already made.

I have done most of my hiking solo, dayhiking and backpacking. I don't think it's for everyone, but in some ways I prefer it. There is a meditative aspect and a rhythm to moving through a landscape that I can rarely find when being pushed/pulled by a group.

I do find that I am extra conservative and walk with greater awareness when travelling solo. I also move a bit slower, since I'm carrying a bit more weight. I don't push quite as hard to make the hard target of a destination on a map; if I need to stop and make a rough camp where there's water and a view, I will. The destination is a place in my head as much as anything. I will also turn back if there's a creek crossing that's just a little too wild or a little too much fresh evidence of wildlife or I smell snow on the wind. No heroics, and no social pressure to push on when prudence suggests otherwise.

I learned my craft before cell phones, sat phones, and PLBs had coverage in my wild places. Though as I get a bit older, I might consider throwing a rental PLB in my pack if I'm going off the beaten path. The idea still seems invasive somehow, but I accept that there are situations that cannot be fully anticipated no matter how careful I might be.