The Journey To Independence
The idea of travelling solo to me was unnerving and way out of my comfort zone—which is why I had to do it.
It was scary and unfamiliar yet completely eye opening and invigorating to spend time with myself somewhere completely new, doing the things only I wanted to do. To have experiences that wouldn’t have happened had I gone with someone else.
With that said, there are many things we can do to flex our independence and allow ourselves the opportunity for growth.
Here are 5 tried-and-tested personal favourites I recommend checking off your self care to-do list…
1. Table for one, please
Believe it or not, no one cares as much as you think they do. And this applies to eating out solo.
You won’t get stared at. But be warned: you might get chatting to a friendly stranger. Sure, feel free to take a book as a buffer or get out your phone. But take yourself out.
Eat mindfully and don’t rush it down your neck to get home to your comfort zone! Enjoy the date with yourself. I’ve found going for lunch or an early dinner helps with the first attempt.
2. Take yourself to a movie
Why is it that watching a film—something we can do so comfortably at home solo—seems slightly unnerving to do alone in public?
It can feel intimidating at first, but it means you can see whatever you like (and more to the point, don’t have to share the popcorn). An afternoon showing will make you feel more at ease to begin with.
So, sit back, relax and enjoy some quality time with your favourite person (you!)
It’s very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person
OSCAR WILDE
3. Go on a solo trip
Plan some fun excursions, activities or a retreat while you’re away to meet some likeminded, friendly faces.
I signed up to a yoga retreat for a few days while in Croatia and ended up making a holiday buddy who turned into a new friend. (Shout out to the lovely yogi Sara Doguelli!)
It’s not easy. Whether it’s a six-week adventure, two-week vacation or a weekend break. But it’s important. Power through those feelings of loneliness and boredom that can wander through our hearts and minds. Let that stuff go. Enjoy it alone and be open to expecting the unexpected.
4. Learn a new skill
You might be surprised at how learning a new craft such as calligraphy, perfume-making or even life drawing can do wonders for your wellbeing.
In a world full of screen time and deadlines, being in a slow-paced, creative environment for a couple of hours every so often puts your mind into meditation mode.
You’ll come away not only relaxed, but also with a new string to your bow!
5. Treat yourself to a weekly tradition
Love flowers? Buy yourself a beautiful fresh bunch, weekly. Invested in a new cookbook? Don’t put it on the bookshelf. Keep it in the kitchen and try one new recipe each week. Does your yoga class make you feel grounded and zen? Make it a weekly priority.
Whatever you can do solely for yourself that makes you feel content and rewarded, make time for it, every week.
