look at it this way…
I work plenty of time in an office, staring at a laptop – went to the gym for the first time since last winter a couple of weeks ago…
…packed full of people, headphones on, staring at tv screens – i've ditched the gym membership, and spent the cash on some new lights
i couldn't wait to hook up with others, so far two 2hrs + solo rides, and it was great, yes i was chased by the boogie monster (and badgers) but what a great way to end the day. My tip for getting your head into it, is to ride out somewhere dark, switch off the lights and chill for a few mins – when you get back into civilisation, you really feel like you've been on a mini-adventure.
you do see a few weirdos tho (but i'm fairly certain, they feel the same way about some fella on his bike giggling like a school boy!)