Here are three responses the next time someone asks why you are always by yourself.
By Alexis Letang
FOMO — the fear of missing out can be easy to feel when you hear about people going out with others. While there are benefits to spending time with others, it’s also useful to spend time with yourself. Here are three reasons:
- Alone does not mean lonely
Loneliness is being alone. It is how a person feels related to a social situation, Thuy-vy Nguyen, an associate professor at Durham University who studies solitude said in the American Psychological Association’s podcast “Speaking of Psychology. You can be lonely even when there are other people around. Nguyen said often the feeling of loneliness comes in when a social experience doesn’t meet expectations.
So if you are hanging out by yourself on a Friday night because you want to, that doesn’t mean you are lonely.
- Solitude can be a break
Sometimes, you just need a break from always going, going and going. That break — especially if it’s seeking solitude — can help you recharge.
Annika Mundahl, 20, thinks it’s important to have a break from the busyness of her school work and extracurriculars. That break typically comes when she is alone. Mundahl said time with herself gives her “the energy to get through the week.”
- Being alone means no judgement
Sophie Wilson, 19, a freshman at the University of Minnesota, plays many instruments, such as guitar and trumpet. When she is alone, she said she can practice and experiment with her music without worrying about disturbing others or facing their judgment.
When you are alone with yourself, the only person you are really worried about is you. You can do what you want, when you want and how you want.