Ever since I was little, I’ve possessed the confidence of a self-assured, successful businesswoman. Just ask my mom. The truth is, I have a hard time understanding people that don’t enjoy doing things by themselves. It’s so peaceful knowing that nothing, or no one for that matter, is pressing you for time. You’re on your own- free to do whatever your little heart desires.
The older I got, the more I realized that I didn’t need someone by my side all the time. I started to cherish car rides without anyone accompanying me and trips to the store without anyone nipping at my heels. “Doesn’t going out alone bother you?” “Don’t you get scared?” are just a few questions that I’ve had to learn how to effortlessly dismiss with a wave of my hand. Why should I limit what I do just because no one else is up for it?
I think the reason why I like to go off on my own frequently is because it allows me time to think and overall just relax. No offense to anyone, but I think we can all agree that sometimes we all need some time away from the human race. It’s natural, there’s nothing wrong with it and it allows us to lead (semi) sane lives.
Moving to the city only asserted my independence. Here it’s not considered weird when you decide to walk by yourself to a coffee shop or walk to the nearest park. Everyone here is on a mission. As long as you look like you have a purpose, no one will bother you. When I’m out alone, I can move at my own pace and focus on things that are of interest to me. When I’m out with others, I have to take their interests into consideration but when I’m by myself, I only have to worry about myself.
You really do learn a lot about yourself when you go off on your own. When others constantly surround you, it’s easy to become influenced by their actions and kind of lose yourself along the way. Their interests become yours and nothing really is authentic to you anymore. It’s important to throw some “me” time in the mix in order to reflect and really focus on your priorities. I know whenever I’m feeling particularly stressed, I’ll settle in a cozy spot with a book or grab my headphones and listen to some music.
I honestly believe that being alone opens you up creatively. You tend to look at things differently because you only have yourself and your brain. Now, I’m not saying to go lock yourself in a room and go all loony, I’m just putting the idea in your head – do what you wish with it.
I understand that some people just don’t like to be alone and that’s okay. It does take a certain type of individual to have the courage to go out and explore unknown territories with no one but themselves. But, if I’m being honest, how else are you going to learn if you never try it out? If you keep waiting around for people to join you, the opportunity may pass you by and you don’t want that to happen.
