The Joys of Solitary Activities
Ething I enjoy being alone. When I was a child, up to the age of 12, I craved constant companionship. My social world was built around friends who shared in my daily adventures. But times have changed, and as I now live in a foreign country mostly on my own, those solitary moments have taken on a new significance.
My choice is not really a matter of much preference now. Living in another culture, fostering this sense of independence and solitude has become my reality. Even with two flatmates, we keep mostly to ourselves, as it truly is 'good fences make good neighbors.' Each day, I wake up on my own, and I embrace this solo routine for breakfast. Breakfast with friends is a treat, save for the occasional spontaneous weeknight meal.
Solo Breaks and Leisurely Moments
On weekends, I no longer feel that excitement associated with days off. Instead, I find joy in the subtle pleasures of living independently. At 47, I've discovered a love for sleeping late on weekends, indulging in long walks around the city. My camera is always at the ready, capturing the vibrant life that surrounds me. I visit coffee shops, order a refreshing iced mocha paired with a delicate Cappuccino, and sit by the glass walls, sipping slowly. The tranquility of it all is simply profound.
Secluded Shopping and Reflective Retail Therapy
Retrieving a sense of self is something I've grown into, and solitary retail therapy plays a significant role in this journey. I love browsing through stores, window shopping, and occasionally making an impulsive purchase. This activity, so far from the hustle and bustle, allows me to focus on the moment. My friends might not understand my need for solitude, but I'm grateful for this private time to care for myself.
Travelling Independently as a Way of Life
The same yearning for solitude extends to my travels, where I embrace the freedom of solo journeys. As I pass through airport terminals, it feels like I'm embodying a seasoned traveler, even though this might be my first time. My routine is often to check in about two hours before the flight and then take a seat near the boarding gate. Being early, rather than rushing, has become my preferred approach. There's a certain comfort in this pre-travel quiet, in the knowledge that my journey is about to begin.
Profound as these solo moments may be, they have also taught me an invaluable lesson. Living independently isn't always easy. In the beginning, it's a challenge. But as I get accustomed to these solitary pleasures, I find myself asking, 'Why didn't I do this sooner?' The stress-free environments and newfound independence are incredibly liberating. With each solo activity, I see the bigger picture more clearly. This journey of self-discovery has been a transformative one, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Conclusion
Being alone no longer represents a challenge but rather a cherished aspect of my life. From solitary breakfast routines to weekend walks and solo travels, I've found a richness in these moments that I once yearned for but never truly sought. The journey to understanding and embracing solitude has been both challenging and enlightening. As I continue to navigate this path, I'm more confident in my ability to spend time in my own company, and the beauty of it all is that I've discovered a deeper, more meaningful life through these solo activities.