This summer, I moved away from the familiarity and comfort of home to intern in a different state. My uncle and aunt graciously opened their home to me, and now, I have a home in a completely new place. I haven’t made much effort to make new friends because I won’t be here long, and I’ve actually started to spend time with myself, which is something new for me. Before this summer, I refused to do anything alone. But now, seeing as I don’t have much of a choice, I’ve begun to take pleasure in my own company.
Being alone has seemed to take on a negative reputation, but I don’t think it’s a bad thing at all. Whether it’s by necessity or by choice, in the same place or a new one, I’ve discovered a number of ways to enjoy being alone.
1. Go see a movie
There’s some sort of stigma that every activity has to be a social one. I always thought that going to a public place on my own would be nerve-wracking, but I proved myself wrong. Going to see a movie is a perfect way to enjoy time by yourself. You’re sitting surrounded by people, but no one you’re obliged to talk to, and there’s a specific activity, so there’s no aimless wondering about what to do. Bonus: you don’t have to share your popcorn.
2. Get lost
I’m completely dependent on Google Maps to get me where I need to go, but that leaves no room for exploration. Driving around a new area is a good way to see things that you otherwise wouldn’t. So if you don’t have a particular destination in mind, or even if you do and you have a little extra time, turn off Google Maps and try to find the way by yourself, and even get lost along the way.
3. Find a quiet place to do a personal activity
I’ve personally gotten myself into a great book this summer, but personal activities can range from reading, writing, doing art, photography, or just thinking. Turning off your phone is very helpful in maintaining the peace. Our time is usually spent bombarded with people—family, friends, and everything on social media. It’s nice to take a step back and enjoy a different, relaxing, non-digital activity.
4. Take your time
When doing activities with other people, you are often tied to their schedule and the pace at which they want to move. I usually go grocery shopping with my dad, so we move through the aisles and find what we need, and never stop to linger and check out new products. As weird as it sounds, I spent half an hour at Trader Joe’s the other day, just strolling up and down the aisles by myself and checking out fun products. I even treated myself to some dark chocolate peanut butter cups, because why not? There was no one to tell me I couldn’t. Doing things by yourself allows you to control your experience.
5. Appreciate the relationships that you do have
Taking time away from people allows you to remember and reflect on why you love spending time with them. You notice what good features in your own self that they bring out of you and all of the fun you have together. Without time away from these people, you’ll never know how much you truly appreciate their company.
Extroverts and introverts alike can enjoy time alone, and it’s important to remember to take a breather and focus on ourselves. While I’ll always enjoy my cousins clamoring toward me when I walk through the front door of my new home, I now relish the moments I have to myself.
