Find Out More About the Huge Upside to Being on Your Own

Start appreciating your time on this fantastic planet more with a few of these simple hacks.

Breathe Into It

What makes you anxious? For me, it’s crowds. They overwhelm me and I dread moving through the masses, even if I’m somewhere I really want to be. Whether it’s an art gallery’s opening night, a music concert by my favourite musician or a farmer’s market offering deals on fresh, wholesome food, I end up feeling apprehension that outweighs the good time.

The anxious thumping of my heart, however, reminds me that, as nervous as I may be, there’s also excitement thrumming through my veins at the chance of making some great memories. I’ve started breathing into this more positive aspect of my anxiety and it’s worked wonders!

Practicing mindfulness has helped me a lot, and my increased heart-rate is becoming something I’m glad to feel instead of scared of.

Find a Spot to Set Up Base Operations

It could be haunting your neighbourhood coffee shop or deli, but every sojourner needs to find their stomping grounds outside of the safety and security of their homes. I’ve got a special table at my local restaurant, somewhere that many locals gather, thank goodness, and sit and people-watch over my toast and tea at least once a week to stave off cabin fever and force myself out of my comfort zone.

Sometimes I take my book as a back-up, other times I have some fun playing real money pokies online on my smartphone, but I also go without any tools or props. This forces me to practice being okay with no safeguards and has actually resulted in a few casual acquaintances being struck up.

Create Some Simple Routines

As much fun and fullness as my hobbies deliver, there’s a lot to be said for certain straightforward routines I’ve created, too.

I’ve long hated how untidy I am, and there’s now space in my life to devote some extra time to keeping things neat and clean, which has had a huge influence on how I feel when I’m at home. Being more mindful as I dress and undress, staying present as I accomplish humdrum labours like brushing my teeth or washing the dishes, and really relishing a well-made cup of tea have brought me a series of small satisfactions that I wouldn’t trade for the world!

In Summary

As I’ve learned to start enjoying the time I’m spending on my own, I realised that a side-effect was that I am able to see myself and my surroundings with a fresh perspective. As tough as it can sometimes still be to be alone without feeling lonely, I’m starting to appreciate that I’m my own best company.  There’s a centredness and freedom in it that I missed before and am only starting to notice and revel in now.