I never really liked spending time alone. Just the thought about it kinda freaked me out. I’m more of a social person, and love being surrounded by family and friends. Thinking about it, I have realized that growing up I never took the time to learn how to be alone. My family has always been super close, and I loved it (still is, and still do :)). The moment I moved out, attending university in a new city, I have had my first experience of being alone and feeling lonely. Honestly, I think the problem was that I just didn’t know what to do with my time. I was so used to always share my every step with somebody, that being alone felt very scary at that moment. Over the years I have learned and experienced the valuable benefits some alone time can have. I mean, I’m still the person who likes to hang out a lot, but I also need time for me and only me. If you feel the same way, this post might help you overcome your fear and you examples of 6 ways to enjoy spending time alone. And for those who already like being alone – maybe you can find some inspiration for the next date with yourself 🙂
So how can you enjoy spending time alone?
+ Time For some new hobbies
You’ll never know if you like doing something when you have never tried it. And what is the best time to try something new? Yes, when you have time for yourself. My partner loves to play video games. I didn’t grow up with video games, that’s why I can’t really share this passion with him. So whenever he’s online, fighting war zones, (and the kids are sleeping) I get time to hobby myself out :). After a busy day, I just love to lay down on the couch and read a book or watch a movie. When I feel creative, I would go into my little art section in our apartment and start painting. Most of the time I have no idea what I want to paint, I just start and let it flow. On the search for a new hobby, I have started writing this blog. You gotta have the courage to start something and most of the time, you’ll like it. If you need some inspiration check out this post.
+ Get to know your truest self
As human creatures, we never stop learning. Just like that, you’ll also find out new things about yourself. Use the time alone to be your truest self. It will give you a better understanding about your feelings, dreams, and fears. Get up and dance in your underwear, snack on whatever you need, or watch your favorite tv show a 10th time, while laughing and crying about the same scenes.
+ Get Lost
Sometimes it’s a good idea to go for a walk. Just get outside and stroll through your neighborhood, or go to a park nearby. Breath in the air and figure out what it smells like. Turn off your phone, this is your moment and nobody should have the chance to interrupt it. Be still in nature and enjoy the beauty. You could also get into your car, and ride around with no real destination. Listen to your favorite music and sing as loud as you can. No rush to get somewhere, just drive and see where you end up at. Don’t be afraid to get lost, it can be really refreshing.
+ Grow
When you’re spending time just with yourself it’s pretty easy to try something new. You don’t have to convince someone or figure out if they’d like to do what you have in your mind. So whatever it is you can dive right into it and start. There are so many things that I am sure you have never done because you said that you barely have time for things like that. Well here’s your time 🙂 learn a new language, take a dance class, or take crazy pictures with your phone. I just started to teach myself to roller-skate. I know how to skate on roller-blades, but that is a little bit different. My goal here is to get stable enough, so I can one day do some dance moves on the skates! Every new skill means personal growth – it’s your time to shine!
+ Take yourself on a date
Why wait for someone else to get your favorite food from your favorite restaurant, watch that new movie in the theatre, or get a fancy drink at the hip bar in the city. You can do all that by yourself and create the most amazing memories while doing that. You can enjoy the time by yourself, or just run into strangers who can become your friends. Don`t miss out on the opportunities life has to offer.
+ Get sh*t done
I know this one might not be the most interesting one, but definitely one of the most productive ones. It’s things we love to push to the side, and tell ourselves we do it tomorrow, next week, next whatever. It’s things like organizing your closet and getting rid of the clothes you don’t wear anymore. When was the last time you cleaned up your basement? Or how about cleaning some windows? It’s activities we’d rather avoid doing, but know they have to be done at some point. So why wait? You’ll feel a lot lighter afterward.