The challenge: do something alone
As a solo traveler, I have no problem doing things alone. It kind of comes with the territory. This week, I went to a play at the Sydney Opera House by myself—and kind of forgot that’s weird until I saw the booking agent’s face when I remarked that I only needed one.
But I noticed a creeping dependency sneaking over me as I settled into life at home over the holidays. Suddenly, I wasn’t going to restaurants, movies or museums alone: I was waiting for someone to go with me. I was scheduling drinks dates and coffee dates and lunch dates and museum dates, instead of just exploring. I’m still kicking myself for not checking out a restaurant that benefits victims of domestic violence, just because one of my friends couldn’t fit it into her schedule.
Granted, I had friends and family that I was dying to catch up with after seven months away. But I realized that the comfort of home and the discomfort of possibly running into someone we know while doing something alone can discourage solo activity. Does anyone else remember the Rachel eating alone episode of Friends?
But doing things by yourself puts you back in touch with you and your passions.
So today, I’d like to challenge you to Do Something Alone. Do something you’ve been really wanting to do, but you can’t find anyone to come with you. Do something that’s been on your schedule for months, but you keep finding excuses to put it off. Whether you’re traveling or at home, do something that will make you happy.
- Go to a restaurant or bar you really want to try.
- See a movie in an independent theatre.
- Go somewhere new for the weekend.
- Have a picnic.
- Try a new class at the gym.
- Join a sports league.
- Learn something new: sign up for lessons of something you’ve always wanted to learn.
- Book a plane ticket.
- Try a yoga class.
- Go to a concert.
- Wander through a museum.
- Go paragliding.
- Close your eyes and feel the sunshine on your face.
- Go to the beach.
- Take a bike ride.
- Take a tour.
- Take a bike tour.
- Join the library.
What’s your favorite thing to do alone? Any great solo adventure stories?
