Prompt: Going it Alone – There are certain events and activities that can feel odd to do alone. Going to the movies, attending a concert, and eating in a restaurant are common things that people would rather do with a buddy. But what about the times when you simply can’t find anyone to go with you, for whatever reason, or when your buddy backs out at the last minute? Write about an experience you’ve had when going by yourself was the only option. How did it make you feel? Did it turn out all right in the end? If going to an event or engaging in a typically social activity by yourself is not a big deal, or you happen to prefer it, write about a specific instance that exemplifies why you feel this way.
I’ve actually never had much of a problem doing things alone. Perhaps I’m odd, but I quite enjoy it. I enjoy the independence of it, being able to go by my own schedule and no one else’s and do whatever I want. I remember years ago when I first went to the movies alone.
I remember in 2011 when I first traveled by myself. That was a big deal for me… it was a big step in independence. I love to travel by myself now and I do it often. Just this weekend, I went to Toronto for the day by myself. I find it refreshing, nice to get away from everything and everyone and just take some time for myself. I think it’s important to spend time with yourself and do things alone. I don’t think going to events or engaging in “typically social” activities alone is a big deal. I don’t think you should ever let the fact that you can’t find someone to go with you to something stop you from doing that thing. Doing it by yourself may feel awkward at first but just enjoy it, whether it’s going to a movie or a concert or traveling. Just enjoy it.
I go to the movies alone. I travel alone, whether it’s to Toronto for the day or Columbus for a weekend or wherever I end up. I take myself to dinner sometimes at a nice restaurant. I don’t think I need to rely on having someone with me to enjoy doing those things, and sometimes it’s nice to go alone.
This isn’t to say that I don’t enjoy the company of others. I certainly do, and I find that traveling with other people and going to concerts with friends is very fun. But I also don’t mind going at it alone, and sometimes, it’s nice to feel independent and know that I don’t necessarily rely on others in order to allow myself to have fun.
I absolutely agree with the part about traveling alone. I didn’t do it until I joined AmeriCorps, and I absolutely love it. It’s great to see new places–I got to go to Philly, to Baltimore, to Atlanta–alone. And while it’s great to be able to share those experiences with other people, I was absolutely loving the independence I had with being able to see what and go where I wanted. There were no restrictions, no restraints, and for me, that’s absolutely what I want out of travel.