Spending quality time alone is beneficial. Alone-time increases overall satisfaction with life and is good for your sense of well-being. When you do things solo, you’re free to proceed at your pace. You have time to reflect and think, and to discover things about yourself you never knew before.
With everything that goes on in life, it may seem daunting to find time to be alone. But everyone deserves “me time,” and it’s worth it to take some.
Here are 20 great ideas for things you can do alone:
- Go to a museum.
It can be liberating to stroll on your own past all the artwork you’ve always wanted to soak in. With nobody else to rush you, you can ponder and appreciate your favorite exhibits without the constant refrain, “Can we go now?”
- Go star-gazing.
Viewing a wide-open sky studded with stars will help you unwind and put everything into perspective. So, grab a lounge chair or blanket and head out to a place with good visibility. Don’t waste the time ticking through tomorrow’s to-do list or mentally rehashing the argument you had with your partner. Simply focus on the beauty that’s unfurled above you.
- Go kayaking.
Most kayaks only fit one person, so this watersport is ideal to enjoy on your own. If you’ve experienced paddling with friends or family, consider exploring alone for a few hours. Solo kayaking is empowering. You’ll build trust in both yourself and your decision-making skills.
- Watch the sunrise.
Everyone deserves a beautiful launch to their day. Whether you venture to a local vista with a breathtaking view or simply linger in your backyard with a fresh cup of iced tea or coffee, taking in a sunrise is the ideal way to get alone with your thoughts and start your day.
- Do some experimenting in your kitchen.
While some people are natural chefs, others struggle in the kitchen. Wherever you land on the spectrum, cooking alone will give you the freedom to sharpen your skills as you experiment with new techniques and recipes. You won’t be restricted by others’ preferences or complaints about things that are unpleasant to them.
- Travel independently.
It doesn’t matter what you do or how far you go—when you travel alone, you’ll venture outside your comfort zone, create life-long memories, and have a great time while you’re doing it!
- Lie on a beach.
Spend a whole afternoon recharging by digging your toes into the sand, frolicking in the waves, and soaking up the sun without endlessly obsessing over the whereabouts or safety of your kids, your spouse, or your friends.
- Treat yourself to a nice dinner out.
It can feel intimidating to dine alone. It really tests your confidence. It’s also an effective way to tell the world that you’re bold and courageous enough to do whatever you want to do by yourself.
- Get lost.
Whether literally or symbolically, life is all about getting lost. You’ll always find your way home. Go for a drive, take a walk, or get lost in a book. Upon your return, you’ll feel like a completely different person: wiser, stronger, and increasingly self-assured.
- Bake—and eat—a cake.
Cake is usually a treat reserved for groups of people on special occasions. But you can also celebrate yourself by making a cake and eating a generous slice of it. And since you’re celebrating, don’t waste time feeling guilty about enjoying it!
- Meditate.
Meditation boosts both your physical and mental health. Besides its immediate relaxing effect, meditation improves concentration, reduces stress, and keeps your brain alert and healthy.
- Relax.
It’s nice to be alone in your home. So, send your family out to do their own thing together, then lock the door, and turn off your phone. You’ll be free to take a long bath, unwind with a glass of wine, or just soak in the glorious solitude.
- Treat yourself.
It’s so easy to get caught up in family and work commitments that months, years, even decades seem to fly by in the blink of an eye, and we never experienced things we always wanted to. Whether it’s a vacation in an exotic locale, or a concert or sporting event at a famous venue, stop waiting. Just treat yourself to that thing you’ve always wanted.
- Perform random acts of kindness.
Your kind actions can have a significant impact on people’s lives. Even though you may not see the impact, you can know that paying it forward did make a difference.
- Take a staycation.
Whether you’re new in town or you’ve lived there your whole life, it’s often hard to see what makes your town special. So, explore your hometown like a tourist. Research to discover special attractions, new restaurants, and unique parks. Wander around and try to see everything from an outsider’s point of view.
- Do things you otherwise dismiss as too embarrassing.
Do you feel like dancing around in your underwear while belting out your favorite song at the top of your lungs? Or would you rather sob through a classic romantic movie with a mound of candy and cookies in your lap? Well, don’t hold back—go for it!
- Indulge your inner child.
Do things you haven’t done since you were a little kid. Play on a swing set, go roller skating, or go to an amusement park. You’ll feel carefree and young again!
- Tackle a DIY project.
Lounging in your upcycled chair, walking through a freshly painted room, or decorating your new patio knowing that you did it yourself will give you such a thrill that you’ll be encouraged to tackle whatever lies ahead.
- Go out for a hike.
Take a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous excursion somewhere tranquil surrounded by nature. Being alone with your thoughts will inspire and rejuvenate you.
- Take a long drive.
Roll down your windows, crank up your favorite tunes, and head out for a spin. Driving alone like this is both thrilling and relaxing!
