I spend a lot of time on my own. Living in my own studio apartment allows me to only see people when I’d like to, and I’m generally unaffected by agendas other than my own. No matter how often I make plans to see friends or how long I sit in class, I have a lot more “me” time than most people do.

I’ve learned to love being alone (sometimes), and here’s why you should too:

Spending time alone does not make you antisocial.

Chances are your schedule isn’t a carbon copy of your friends’, so you’re bound to do some things on your own. Don’t panic and take your food to go if your lunch plans get cancelled. Eating out alone every so often is no big deal, and the people around you probably couldn’t care less if you’re without a companion. Pop in your ear buds or break out a book and enjoy your food interruption free.

Not constantly surrounding yourself with others encourages independence.

People are sometimes helpful. Having friends on stand by for dating advice or for when you’re looking to rearrange your apartment is convenient, but figuring things out yourself is sometimes more rewarding. Don’t try lugging a television up five flights of stairs without an extra pair of hands, but don’t be afraid to go clothes shopping alone.

Being in touch with yourself should come first.

Before you share a living space, enter a new relationship, or even "on board" a new friend, you should be comfortable with yourself. Alone time allows you to think and form your own opinions, so you won’t be dramatically influenced by others. Whether your goals are professional, spiritual, or social, know what you want in your life before taking others into account.

But if the most human interaction you’d had in a week is greeting the homeless man in your stairwell, maybe you should get out more.