I’ve never been a fan of the party scene. I’m not sure if this surfaces from my somewhat strict upbringing, my long-term relationship, my low alcohol tolerance, my sleep deprivation, or some other factor, but I can honestly say that I don’t like going out at all.

Now before you say anything about my choice of friends, let me explain that I have some of the best people in my life that a girl could ask for. In fact, if I do end up going out, it’s solely to spend time with them.

In my earlier college years, I used to feel extremely guilty when my friends would be ready to go, mini skirt and heels on, with their hair and makeup done, begging me to come with them. It’s not that I didn’t want to hang out with them; I just don’t particularly enjoy standing in a loud, hot, sticky bar filled with 500 sweaty freshmen while getting beer spilled on me. I’d come up with new lies every time, such as “I really don’t feel good tonight” or “I need to catch up on some homework.” After at least 20 minutes of their annoying, drunken pleads, they would finally give up and stumble out the door without me. A few times, I’ve even been called “lame” because I didn’t tag along (in their defense, this was said in a non-sober manner, but it’s still kind of hurtful). Sure I felt upset when they left, even embarrassed, believing I had let them down.

Why did I feel this way? Why is it the expectation that college students are supposed to get drunk each weekend? Why is someone choosing to relax or have some personal time considered “lame?”

As a senior in college reflecting on my past four years, I have learned that you should never live to make others happy because 1) they probably won’t be happy for some reason anyway, and 2) if you’re busy making others happy, how will you make yourself happy? Focus on you. What do you want for yourself?

Want to watch Netflix? Fine. Take a nap? Do it. Hit the gym? Go ahead. Play beer pong? Cool. Stay in and study? Hooray. Go to the bars? Awesome. The point is, whether you choose to go out or not, do what’s right for you. Don’t cave into peer pressure and definitely don’t let anyone make you feel bad about your choices.

Of course, I’m not trying to say that going out can’t be fun or that you should live under a rock and never ever go out. I’m a firm believer in getting outside of your comfort zone in order to grow as a person and also that it’s important to make the most of your college years. Drinking and socializing are fun, and I sure love a nice glass of wine. I personally just have to be in the mood to go out and party.

Some of my best college memories involve my friends and I staying in for the night: ordering an XL pizza and having a spa night complete with facials, mani-pedis, and your typical dramatic gossip. To me, bonding is so much more than bonging a beer. Take the time to truly get to know your friends for who they are. You won’t regret it. I promise you’ll be fine without your weekly happy hour Insta selfie for one night.

If you take away anything from this article, please simply make sure that you’re happy with the decisions you’re making. Whether you can relate to my weekend ways or you’re currently rolling your eyes, you’ll know where to find me this weekend, and I’m totally cool with that.