This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s fall editorial intern Jason Tsoi. Find him on Instagram at @jason.tsoi. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
In a society where going to public places in groups is the norm, stepping out alone can be challenging. For some, it’s a daunting experience that makes you feel self-conscious or judged. These feelings can lead to setbacks in your life, preventing you from becoming more independent. But, you don’t have to let these thoughts control how you live your life. Going to places alone has many perks. Not only does it boost your confidence, but it allows you to do more things without having to worry about or rely on other people. Whether you want to begin doing things on your own or need ideas, here is how to enjoy being alone.
Influencers Who Do Things Alone
But first, the beginning stages of finding enjoyment in being solo is seeing how other people experience solitude. On social media, there are content creators who dedicate their content to documenting their experiences of being alone. In most instances, the viewer is shown a first person perspective of the content creator’s actions. These content creators instill confidence in viewers, motivating them to step out of their comfort zone.
One of those content creators is TikTok user @aiyannace, also known as Aiyanna. Based in New York City, the influencer records videos of herself roaming around the bustling streets, visiting restaurants, supermarkets and other public places by herself. In many of her videos, Aiyanna does absurd things, like entering the backrooms of a store or going behind the counter of a restaurant. She also makes comedic comments, saying anything that comes to her mind. This breaks preconceived notions about people who are alone. It is often assumed that people who are by themselves are introverted and keep to themselves. However, Aiyanna shows us that you can be outgoing and still enjoy doing things on your own at the same time.
Another TikToker who creates content on doing things alone is @mysolopov. The content creator follows a specific structure, showing his perspective of doing things alone. In his videos, mysoloPOV shows himself going to amusement parks, movie theaters and the mall. From singing karaoke to riding roller coasters at Disneyland solo, he proves that you can still have fun in public places while being alone. Now that you have seen people’s experiences of doing activities alone, it’s time to enjoy doing them yourself.
Movie Ticket For One
Typically, going to the movie theater is regarded as a group activity, but it does not have to be. There are many positives to watching a movie by yourself. When it comes to purchasing a ticket, you can choose to sit anywhere you want without having to consider the preferences of your friends or family. Another positive thing about going to the movies alone is that you can purchase snacks for yourself. Movie theater snacks are expensive, especially when you’re buying snacks for a group of people. But treating yourself to a nice bucket of popcorn or an ICEE slushie is worth it. Plus, there’s no room for any interruptions while watching a movie on your own. But, if you’re still hesitant about buying a ticket for one, here are a few tips to still have an enjoyable experience.
Being in a giant room by yourself and surrounded by strangers can feel uneasy. However, it’s important to understand that everyone in the theater is there for the same reason as you: to enjoy a movie. With this mindset, it can provide a sense of community, eliminating the negative thoughts of being alone. But if you still feel anxious about sitting in a theater by yourself, walk into the theater as soon as the previews begin. This way, the theater will be more crowded with other moviegoers around you. Since there will likely be moviegoers already sitting next to you who are preoccupied by the previews, no one will notice that you are by yourself. By the end of the movie, you will feel more self-assured about your ability to do things on your own.
Table For One
Dining at a restaurant is another activity that is often considered as a communal activity. But, eating alone is not atypical as it seems. According to data from a June online survey conducted by PureSpectrum, 68% of Gen Z and Millennials stated they had dined solo this past year. Despite not having the social aspects of dining, dining alone has its pros. While eating alone, you won’t have to worry about the pressures of having to keep a conversation going, but instead enjoy your own company. Dining solo can also show you new spots and foods to try. Instead of depending on other people’s decisions, you have the option to choose which restaurant and food to eat. Who knows? Solo dining may help you discover your new favorite restaurant or dish.
Eating alone while surrounded by groups of diners can feel intimidating. But it can also be a dull experience. Luckily, there are many ways to entertain yourself while waiting to eat. After ordering your food, you can read a book, write in a journal or simply scroll on your phone. After your food arrives, you can put on headphones and watch your favorite show or movie, drowning out the voices of diners. While eating, you can also entertain yourself by listening to your favorite music. Dining solo will not only leave you feeling full, but it will also give you confidence in yourself.
At first, finding enjoyment in doing public activities alone is difficult to get used to. But it’s a rewarding experience that will make you feel more independent and confident about yourself.
Do you or will you start to do things solo? Let us know in the comments.
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