I'm one of the older ones in my group of friends. I just turned 21 a few months ago and since then, I've been frequenting the popular bars in Tallahassee like it's my job.
It's always a fun time when my friends call me up and say they want to grab a drink at College Town or get smashed at Gordo's. But then there are those nights when no one answers my calls or Snaps, and I'm in desperate need of an over-priced drink, and I've got to make a choice: to drink, or not to drink?
I've experienced my fair share of bouts of social anxiety, where the thought of going anywhere by myself makes me ill. It can be intimidating, especially on a Friday night, to even consider going to the bar by yourself. But I'd like to say I've done it and it's not the worst thing in the world.
It's a different kind of evening when you go to the bar by yourself. You may have that nagging feeling that someone is judging you and laughing at you in the corner, or you might feel paranoid that you're being watched. You might think that people are questioning your actions, "why are they drinking by themselves? That's pathetic." But it's never that bad, I promise.
I've taken my dog with me when I grab a drink at the bar. I've brought my laptop with me to do homework while I have a margarita. Sometimes, I'll sit outside and sip on a beer while enjoying the nice weather and read a book. I make myself comfortable at the bar; there's no reason to sit upright and perfectly poised on a barstool.
As much fun as it is to go with a group of friends or a date to grab a drink or two, it's never a bad time if you go to the bar by yourself. It's a new form of independence that you'll be proud of yourself for gaining. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary, but it'll pay off when you realize nothing can stop you from doing what you want to do now.
It's always a good idea to tell someone that you're going to the bar by yourself, and give them updates of when you plan to leave and if you go to another bar after. As with all adult-activities, if you plan to drink, you should also plan to have someone pick you up or call an Uber or Lyft.
