Even in 2020, a lot of people still believe there is shame in doing things on your own, that it somehow makes you look lonely or friendless. But the truth is, there is nothing at all wrong with spending time in your own company.
Many psychologists, like Sherrie Bourg Carter Psy.D. of Psychology Today, frequently tell us that spending time by yourself is good for us and our mental health. So, in 2019, why so often are we given strange looks or have to deal with strangers taking pity on us because we dare to do something shudders alone?
If being alone isn’t something that comes naturally to you, now is the perfect time to branch out and learn to start enjoying yourself, by yourself.
Don’t know where to start? Try treating yourself to a week of solo ‘date nights’ and you’re guaranteed to gain confidence. After this week, you’ll never be afraid to do anything on your own again.
Self care
Ease yourself into ‘me time’ with some #selfcare. As cliche as it sounds, a bath, clean sheets and some post bath treats can transform your mood, even if only for an evening. Turn off your phone, binge watch your favourite show, catch one of Netflix’s cringiest movies, or stick your nose in that book you’ve been meaning to start. If finding time to be by yourself at home is difficult, you could even consider a little one night staycation in your hometown.
Eat something
Something as simple as taking yourself to eat can really add to your confidence if doing things alone frightens you. Eating is probably one of the biggest things that people find difficult to do by themselves. But anyone who works in the hospitality industry will tell you how common it is, and how there is nothing weird about it. Treat yourself to a night at that restaurant you’ve been wanting to try. Or find the cutest cafe you can and hole up in there for a lovely people-free afternoon.
See something
Be it that famous building you haven’t seen yet, a movie, or a west end show, go out there and see it. If you wait for others to come with you you could be waiting forever. See the thing you’ve wanted to see for the longest time, and have fun doing it. Being with your own thoughts when you experience something is often more enjoyable than the pressure of immediately discussing it. Give yourself time and space to take in the experience. You’ll be surprised how much you enjoy it.
Learn something
If you enjoy learning, spending your day at a local museum or library is a fantastic way to take time for yourself. Cities in the UK and beyond host a huge variety of museums, libraries and institutions. From the V&A to The National Archives. Many are free to enter and offer so much potential for education. Talk to people, read, see. You never know what you might discover when you’re not looking for it.
As scary as it can seem, doing things by yourself can become one of your favourite past times. Once you’re comfortable in your own company you can conquer the world. Get out there, you never know how much you’ll enjoy it.
Chloe Rose
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