For as long as I can remember, I have loved to spend my time with others. We did not have to always be doing something, it could be as simple as being in each other's presence was enough for me. I didn't want to just sit there alone; what fun is that? Playing with friends or hanging out with my family always beat the idea of sitting by myself. As I grew up, I kept this idea. Most of my favorite memories were shared with my closest friends, and I would not have it any other way. Different people bring different personalities and new experiences to a friend group, and some of the best nights were spent driving around with music in the background while we drove through town or blasting oldies with the windows down hoping everyone would hear us. Throughout high school, I would always strive to spend time with others, being by myself too much would allow my mind to overanalyze everything in my life. So, I always tried to have plans or sit with my family as long as they would tolerate me.

My senior year, I had a close friend who began college and told me that she began making sure she at least had a few hours to herself. At first, I did not understand, especially in college, a new place with new people, why wouldn't you want to surround yourself with people? Then, as I thought about it more, I understood. You must be comfortable in your own company for others to feel comfortable with you. She spent her time organizing her schedule and making sure she had her life together, and honestly, it was such an odd concept to me. Now, however, being in college I truly realize that alone time is a necessity. Don't get me wrong. I love being with my friends and they have made college 100x better, but I have been enjoying my own company as well. And no, I am not going to become a hermit and you won't either. Having some time every day to just relax and have to yourself are so important. They allow you to absorb everything going on around you, especially because high school and college aren't too awfully similar.

College has helped me realize that there will be times in my life and my future career that I will have to do things on my own, and that idea doesn't sound as bad anymore. If I could give a piece of advice, I would say to try it out. It won't make you a loner or someone who despises others, it almost made me appreciate their presence more than I thought it could. There is no shame in allowing yourself to destress and get your life together, and it can be easier to be alone during this time. So, next time you need some time for yourself, don't think that makes you a loner; it makes you a person who values their time and wants to spend it wisely.