Power of Solitude

I love doing things by myself. I frequently do things by myself. No I am not lonely. No I am not friendless. No I am not weird (well I am but a good level of weird I like to think lol). No I don’t hate people (well kinda lol). Solitude is empowering.

I love myself. I love my own company. I am at peace by myself. I recognize that some people can not say the same. Self love and inner peace are a struggle. I think it is important that we all do the continuous work that self love and inner peace demands.

It took me some time but I finally decided to stop waiting around for others. The things I need to do, the things I want to do, the things that make my soul happy.... why in the world am I going to wait around for others to do these things?? I finally realized how silly that was. I finally realized how much this was keeping me from living my best life. Btw, this is absolutely not me saying anything negative about those in my life. People are busy. People have different interests. People have different priorities. Also, sometimes it is better to do a particular activity alone. You are free to do as you please. You don’t have to hold yourself back. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. You don’t have to accommodate the needs of another person. This is not meant in a selfish way but everyone needs a break. 

I experience things differently when I am alone. I am more observant. I appreciate the little things a bit more. I am more likely to try something new or talk to someone new. I am a bit more carefree. I find myself discovering new places and things. I force myself to push past my comfort zone. I do things I maybe wouldn’t do if I was with someone else. I become more in touch with my thoughts. In turn, I learn more about myself and grow in ways I don’t think I could without these experiences. In any relationship, friendship or romantic, I think it is important to always have the space to do some things solo.

I apologize for the amount of times I have used the word, things, in this post. I couldn’t think of an alternative word. Some things I enjoy doing alone are going to the movies, going on walks, going out to eat, grabbing a drink during happy hour and visiting a new place. One goal I have set for myself this summer is to push myself to attend a concert alone. I love music and I have not been to a concert in years. The idea of going to a concert solo does make me a little uncomfortable but I am looking forward to the experience. Also, independence is big for me. I never want to be dependent on another to do the things that make me happy.


You want to see a movie that just came out? GO.

You want to try a new restaurant? DO IT.

You’ve been wanting to do something for while? GO AND DO IT.

I encourage you. I challenge you. I beg you. 

All of this being said. This in no way means I don’t equally enjoy the company of others. I do. Having fun with the people I love is my favorite. I value the company of others just as much as I value my solitude. It’s very much a balance. I also think once you find your inner peace you will do anything to protect it. Finding my peace has given me the strength to only allow the company of those that maintain that peace.

Solo trip to Quebec City, Canada. Beautiful city, wonderful weekend.

A kind stranger took this picture of me. 

If you don't know how to be alone, you don't know who you are. 

     - Johnathon Franzen