Do you ever hesitate to go somewhere alone because it feels awkward or unfamiliar?
You’re not alone in that feeling.
Many people find the idea of eating at a restaurant by themselves, going to a movie solo, or traveling alone to be intimidating.
But here’s something comforting to remember—doing things by yourself doesn’t mean you’re lonely.
It means you’re open.
It means you’re independent.
It means you’re brave enough to enjoy life without waiting on someone else’s schedule.
In fact, some of the most freeing and joyful experiences happen when we’re alone.
There’s no need to coordinate plans, make small talk, or compromise.
You get to do exactly what you want, at your own pace.
And just like anything new, the more you practice being alone in public, the easier and more natural it becomes.
If you’d like to feel more comfortable exploring life on your own terms, here are some gentle steps you can take to help build that confidence and freedom.
Start Small and Build Your Confidence
If you’re not used to going places by yourself, it can feel overwhelming at first.
That’s completely normal.
But like most things, it gets easier when you take it one small step at a time.
You don’t need to plan a big solo trip to start.
Try something simple.
Take a short walk in a park.
Sit in a cozy coffee shop with your favorite drink.
These small moments help you get used to being out in the world on your own without pressure.
As your comfort grows, you can stretch a little further.
Try going to a casual restaurant, visiting a bookstore, or attending a community event.
Each outing builds a little more confidence for the next.
One worry that often comes up is the fear of being judged.
You might wonder what others will think.
But the truth is, most people are too wrapped up in their own lives to pay much attention.
And if someone does look your way, it’s likely out of curiosity—not judgment.
And even if someone is judging, does it really matter?
Enjoying your own company is a quiet kind of strength.
If you feel uneasy, bring something that helps you feel anchored.
A book, some music in your earbuds, or even a small journal can give your hands and mind something to focus on.
The more you practice, the more natural it feels.
And before long, heading out alone won’t feel brave—it’ll just feel normal.
Shift Your Mindset and Embrace the Freedom
How we feel about doing things alone often begins with how we think about it.
If your mind labels it as strange or sad, of course it’ll feel uncomfortable.
But when you start seeing solo outings as a gift instead of a burden, your whole perspective changes.
Think of it this way—being alone means you’re free.
You get to decide everything.
Where to go.
What to eat.
How long to stay.
You’re not waiting on anyone else’s preferences.
You’re doing what brings you joy.
Have you ever been out with others and felt like you had to compromise?
Maybe you skipped a stop you wanted to make.
Or left early because someone else was ready to go.
When you’re alone, you don’t have to navigate any of that.
You have the space to fully enjoy every moment.
Try focusing not on what’s missing, but on what you gain.
Freedom.
Peace.
Time to think, to reflect, to take it all in without interruption.
People dine alone, travel solo, and attend events on their own all the time.
It’s not a sign of isolation.
It’s often a sign of confidence and self-awareness.
When you let go of the idea that outings must be social, you discover a deeper kind of satisfaction—the kind that comes from simply being content in your own company.
Plan Ahead to Feel More at Ease
One of the most common reasons people avoid solo outings is fear of the unknown.
Where will I sit?
What if I feel awkward?
What if something goes wrong?
These are valid concerns—but they can often be softened with a bit of planning.
Choose a place that feels welcoming and low-pressure.
If dining out makes you nervous, try a cozy café or a casual spot where solo diners are common.
If you’re seeing a movie, go during off-hours when things are quieter.
Before you leave, check out details like menus, parking, or ticket info.
Knowing what to expect helps you feel more in control.
You can even plan how to pass the time while you’re there.
Bring a book to enjoy while waiting for your meal.
Listen to a podcast.
Make a small list of things you want to see if you’re visiting a museum or park.
Having a gentle purpose for your outing can take the edge off any nervousness.
The more prepared you feel, the more relaxed you’ll be.
And the more relaxed you are, the more likely you’ll be to actually enjoy yourself.
Eventually, these little outings won’t feel like something to plan for.
They’ll feel like a natural part of life.
Find Enjoyment in the Experience, Not the Company
Many of us are used to thinking of fun as something that happens with others.
But joy can be found in solitude, too.
You don’t need someone sitting across from you to enjoy a good meal.
You don’t need a companion to appreciate a beautiful sunset.
You don’t need an audience to laugh at a movie or feel moved by a piece of music.
Try shifting your focus from who’s not there to what is there.
Taste the food.
Notice the colors in the room.
Feel the breeze on your face as you walk.
These experiences are yours alone, and that makes them even more special.
If awkwardness creeps in, gently remind yourself:
I’m not waiting for someone.
I’m not missing out.
I chose this.
I’m showing up for my own life.
And that’s a beautiful thing.
Learning to enjoy your own company doesn’t mean you’re giving up on social interaction.
It just means you’re expanding your world.
You’re allowing yourself to enjoy all of life—not just the parts shared with others.
Celebrate Your Independence and Keep Exploring
Once you begin to feel more comfortable being out on your own, take a moment to celebrate that.
It’s not a small thing.
It means you’ve built confidence.
You’ve learned to trust yourself.
And you’ve discovered that your happiness doesn’t depend on someone else showing up.
As you grow in confidence, challenge yourself gently.
Try a slightly fancier restaurant.
Take a short day trip.
Go to a concert or museum you’ve always wanted to see.
With each new experience, you expand your sense of independence.
And you learn more about yourself—what you like, what makes you feel alive, what brings you peace.
Reflect on your outings.
Ask yourself how you felt before you went.
Then ask how you felt after.
Most people find that the anticipation is far more uncomfortable than the actual experience.
And over time, you begin to look forward to the quiet, simple freedom of going solo.
You don’t have to wait on anyone else.
You don’t have to put off joy until someone joins you.
You can live fully now.
Because the truth is, you are enough.
You are capable.
And you are free to explore life whenever and however you choose.
Final Thoughts
Feeling comfortable going places alone is a gift you can give yourself.
It starts with one step.
One outing.
One small act of courage.
And it grows from there.
By shifting your mindset, planning ahead, and gently challenging yourself, you open the door to a new kind of freedom.
One that’s rooted not in having company, but in being content with yourself.
Life is waiting—no reservations required.
With care,
Mary