Having someone to accompany you whenever you need support can be comforting. There is a popular saying, “No man is an island,” which emphasizes the importance of companionship. Many people agree with this statement because life often feels easier when we have someone to lean on. But, spending time with ourselves is equally valuable. There are moments when solitude gives us clarity, peace, and the opportunity to know ourselves better.
Oftentimes, people fear being alone, associating it with loneliness and sadness. But, solitude is not always negative. In fact, it is in those quiet and personal moments that we can reflect and truly listen to our inner voice. Life does not always hand us the company we want, but what it always gives us is the presence of ourselves. Knowing how to embrace that presence is a form of self-love.
Being the eldest daughter has taught me many lessons in life, one of which is the need to figure things out on my own. Independence was not something I freely chose at first, rather, it was a responsibility placed on my shoulders. Growing up in an Asian household where expectations are high and responsibilities are heavy. You learn to adapt quickly, to solve problems without asking too many questions, and to put others before yourself. It was not easy, but with time I realized that being independent, also gave me strength and resiliency even though it was difficult.
As the years passed, I began to see solitude differently. At first, doing things alone felt uncomfortable and even awkward. Simple activities such as eating out, shopping, or walking by myself in public used to make me feel uneasy. I would worry about what people thought of me, whether they were judging me for sitting alone at a restaurant or strolling without company. But over time, I came to realize that most people are too busy with their own lives to notice what others are doing. No one truly cares if you are eating alone or when you shop by yourself. These insecurities exist only in our minds, and once I overcame them, I found freedom.
This freedom allowed me to see solitude in a new light. Being alone does not necessarily mean being lonely. It is in these moments that we can see ourselves more clearly. When we spend time alone, we are not influenced by the voices and opinions of others. We can make choices without hesitation and without fear of being judged. Like when shopping alone, we could choose the things we like without worrying about someone else’s opinion. Those small but meaningful moments of independence gives us sense of peace and confidence.
I have done many things on my own, like satisfying my cravings and even celebrating my birthday. At first it seemed lonely, but over time I realized that not everyone will always be there when you need them. I also learned that not everything in life needs to be shared with others, because sometimes what you truly need is yourself.
Doing things alone has taught me many lessons, including finding joy in preparing myself before going out. I learned to appreciate the simple act of choosing outfits, fixing my hair, and putting on a little makeup, not to impress others but to feel confident and happy with myself. These girly things, like dressing up and adding small touches, became moments of self care that remind me I can look and feel good even when I am on my own.
I have also come to believe that solitude is a powerful form of self-care. When we dedicate time for ourselves, we are nurturing our mental and emotional health. Self-care does not always mean indulging in grand activities such as vacations or spa treatments. Sometimes it is as simple as having a solo coffee date or eating in a fast food by yourself. These little acts are reminders that we deserve to enjoy our own company and treat ourselves kindly.
Being in the field of Psychology has also shaped the way I view solitude and independence. This course has taught me to be more observant of people’s behaviors and intentions. It helped me realize that not everyone around us has good intentions, and sometimes, being part of a large group does not guarantee happiness. It is better to be alone or with a few genuine people than to surround ourselves with toxic relationships that harm our well-being. It taught me the value of setting boundaries, letting go of people who drain my energy, and protecting my mental space.
Through this journey, I learned that being comfortable with solitude allows us to choose better company when we decide to be with others. It teaches us not to settle for relationships that compromise our peace. When you are content with being alone, you are less likely to cling to unhealthy friendships or relationships just to avoid loneliness. You gain the strength to walk away from things and people that no longer serve your growth.
But this does not mean we should isolate ourselves completely. Relationships and companionship remain important aspects of life. Having someone to talk to, share laughter with, or lean on during hard times is a beautiful blessing. But it is equally important to find balance between being with others and being with ourselves. Both are essential for a healthy and meaningful life.
Being alone is not something to be afraid of. It is something we need to embrace and celebrate because at the end of the day, the only person who would stay with you is yourself. Learning to love that person, to listen to them, and to spend time with them is one of the greatest investments you can make in life.
To everyone reading this, I hope you also find time to enjoy your own company. Do not be afraid to sit alone in a café, to go on a solo walk, or to treat yourself without waiting for someone else’s presence. These experiences may feel strange at first, but they will help you build confidence, resilience, and a deeper connection with yourself.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog. I hope my words encourage you to see solitude not as loneliness, but as an opportunity for growth and self-love. Until next time, let us continue to choose ourselves, nurture our hearts, and live fully both in the company of others and in the company of our own beautiful selves.