The benefits of travelling solo

Life of a solo traveller

By Charlene

"what if i GET LONELY?"

The truth is that the majority of us fear spending time on our own. For some of us it is a wonderful moment in our lives that allows us to truly get to know ourselves and for others, it brings to the surface feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and fear.

It is only natural to have feelings like this and sure, we all have negative thoughts that shadow us in self-doubt and question our capability to spend time on our own, however there are many benefits to being alone.

Kristin Tice Studeman wrote a brilliant article on Harpers Bazzaar about how travelling alone does not make you sad or lonely. She hits the nail on the head with regards to the stereotypes that we seem to cling onto even though times are changing and writes about the emotions that we can feel when being alone.

Whether you are planning to travel, go to the cinema, walk round a local park or just spend time at home - being alone is actually good for you and here are some of the reasons why...

You will get to know yourself better
It will get you out of your comfort zone
You will meet new people easier
You can select the path you take
You can learn how to rely on yourself
It will help boost your confidence
It is great for your well-being
You will finally appreciate spending time alone

I personally love spending time on my own, whether it's in my local pub having a glass of wine, watching a film, walking around the sights of London or travelling to different countries. I am happy enjoying my own company and it gives me a sense of fulfilment and joy to know that I can.

In my younger years I always experienced problems when relying on others and I am sure most of you can relate with me on this. I mean how many of you have wanted to do something but your friends weren't available or let you down last minute? there was an amazing city/country that you wanted to visit but no one could afford to go with you? there was a great new film out but no one wanted to see it with you? you really wanted to travel the world but no one was free to go?...

From my mid 20's until now (29), spending time on my own has helped me overcome such problems and has encouraged me to become more independent. I have learnt to rely on myself and it has given me the freedom to do many things that I would not have done, had I relied on others. It has enabled me to travel to some wonderful places and most of all, meet some amazing people. Over the years, those people who were once strangers to me have become like family and had I not of been alone and experienced solo travel, none of these friendships would exist today.

Being alone isn't for everyone and that's OK. But for anyone who thinks about being on their own and/or travelling solo, know that it's OK and you shouldn't be afraid to. It is likely to take you on a journey of self-discovery and as highlighted above, the benefits are invaluable, so my question to you is: "What are you waiting for?"