This article is edited by Salma Abuzaiter
Have you ever been so excited about plans, only for someone to cancel, leaving you wondering whether to spend the night at home or to go out alone? Maybe you were afraid of feeling or appearing lonely. Or perhaps the thought of going out without someone by your side felt intimidating.
I used to feel this way. I admired women who could confidently venture out on their own and genuinely enjoy their own company. Their independence inspired me so much that two years ago, I decided to overcome this fear of mine. My first attempt at embracing solitude was a simple trip to the mall. It seems simple, right? Well, the whole drive home, I was stuck on the 401 listening to Lana Del Rey and sobbing because I was finally alone with my thoughts. At the beginning, it felt like torture. But over time, I became more comfortable navigating my own thoughts and emotions, making each date a little easier than the last.
There’s a certain stigma around the idea of dining alone, as though sitting at a table for one is a sign of loneliness rather than independence. The first time you eat out alone, it can feel like everyone is watching you. But eventually, you realize how freeing it is to walk into a restaurant, order whatever you want, and enjoy your meal without worrying about anyone else’s opinions. Getting ready and dressing up shouldn’t be things you only do for others. Put on an outfit that makes you feel beautiful, get ready in whatever way makes you feel most confident, and take yourself to your favourite restaurant.
This summer, a new movie came out in theatres. I really wanted to see it, so I asked every person I knew if they wanted to go watch it. Everyone had either already seen it or wasn’t interested. I decided I would wait until it became available to rent. Then it occurred to me how unnecessary and ridiculous that was. Why would I wait for someone else when I could easily go by myself? That night, I packed all of my favourite snacks, wore my comfiest outfit, and bought one singular ticket. It ended up being one of the best movies I’d seen.
I used to believe I needed a romantic partner or a friend by my side to do something fun, but the most valuable lesson I learned was how to romanticize those moments for myself. Learn to find the beauty in doing things alone, and eventually, you’ll begin to appreciate your own company. Sometimes the best company you can have is your own.