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Looking for things to do by yourself? Not everyone enjoys hanging out in public with a group of people. Personally, I prefer either one-on-one social situations, or to just go out and do things alone.
Going places alone can be a dream for introverts, and a refreshing change of pace for extraverts. Whatever your social preference, there’s always value in spending time with yourself.
So, if you’re looking for fun things to do by yourself, here’s a list of ideas to spend some time out of the house on your own!
1. Take a Walk
One of the simplest (and FREE!) things to do outside by yourself, walking will get you a good dose of fresh air, sunlight, and general sense of connectedness with nature.
Er, okay, depending on where you live, the air might not be so fresh, the sun might be hiding and there might not be a tree in sight.
But it’s still good to get out for a walk, no matter where you are! If you’re looking for something scenic, why not do a search for walking trails near you?
2. Go to a Café
If you’re looking for things to do alone in your city, going to a café is a great option–especially if you’re anxious about being alone in public.
Lots of people get social anxiety at the thought of being seen sitting alone at a table, but cafés are known to be a popular spot for people who just want to grab a coffee and get some work or reading done.
If you live somewhere where there are many different local cafés to choose from, switch it up!
Visit different places every week or so until you find one that feels like home.
Or, maybe you’ll find that you like the vibes of a few different places, and you can go wherever you’re feeling more inclined on a given day.
3. Visit the Library
Libraries are an excellent place to go alone, and cost nothing to get in. Many have reading corners where you can count on not being bothered for hours.
Hit the stacks, browse for books, and grab a seat when you find something that piques your interest!
Just remember not to reshelve any books you’re finished with yourself – most libraries will have a cart or designated shelf for books you’ve taken off the shelves.
And, there are so many other things you can do at a library besides check out books!
Many libraries offer community events and classes you can sign up for. Check your local library for a list of their resources!
4. Take a Solo Vacation!
Who says you have to stay in your own city to have a good time alone? Take a trip out of town!
Whether it’s just a day trip or an overnight stay, traveling alone can definitely be an exhilarating experience.
Visit a city a few hours away from you, see what sights and attractions they have to offer, and don’t be afraid to go it alone!
Or, if you prefer, look for charming AirBnBs in your city and have a little staycation!
Pssst. Stuck at home but still thirsty for travel? Check out these fun and creative ideas for “traveling” from home!
5. Take a Class
Whether it’s a one-time class, or an ongoing one, learning a new skill or hobby is a great way to spend time with yourself, while also giving you the opportunity to be around others and maybe even strike up a new friendship or two!
Learn to sculpt, to speak another language, to dance, to play guitar, to read palms, to practice yoga, to cook… The possibilities are endless!
Er, okay, maybe they’re a little limited by what’s available in your area. Search for classes near you, or check your library to see if they offer any community classes!
6. Volunteer
What are you passionate about? Animals? The environment? Youth? Elders? Hunger & homelessness?
Volunteering is another example of something you can do alone while still getting the chance to be around others.
Look for volunteer opportunities in your local community for causes you care about.
It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make some friends, all while honoring your values and making a difference!
7. Sit Outside with a Journal
Many of us like to do our introspection indoors, in the privacy of our rooms (or perhaps in the shower), but there’s a special kind of healing and power that comes through when you take the time to journal while sitting outside.
Take a journal with you to a scenic place, like a nature park or a quiet beach, and write out your thoughts.
Or, if you prefer a busier environment, go sit outdoors in a local cafe!
I prefer both a bit of nature and human life as a background for my outdoor journaling sessions, so I usually head over to an open college campus and sit on a bench near some grass or a little pond.
Feeling artsy? Take a sketchbook, instead! Sketch your surroundings, or whatever pops into your head. If you’ve adopted the habit of drawing something every day, take it outside every now and then!
8. Go to an Event or Exhibit
Maybe there’s an art exhibit, a concert, or a new movie you’ve been wanting to see that none of your friends seem interested in. Go see it yourself!
Movies, concerts, plays, sporting events, art/science exhibits… These can all be solo experiences.
No one is going to care if you show up to a theater, concert or sporting venue alone.
No one is going to judge you for sitting by yourself. They’re too busy enjoying the same event you are!
The next time you see an event that piques your interest, consider buying just one ticket. Sometimes these things are even more enjoyable without the distraction of company.
9. Treat Yourself!
Go to a salon, or a day spa! Get your nails done, or try a new hair style.
Maybe you’ve been feeling less than at your best lately — go get a massage! Or, have you ever tried reiki?
Whatever “treating yourself” looks like for you, there are many forms that can get you out of the house.
Is shopping more your thing? Hit up a thrift store and assemble a fun new outfit! Spend a day downtown and browse all the cute little shops.
Even if you’re on a budget, you can still treat yourself to some window shopping, and browse for sales while you’re at it.
I like to spend time in historical downtowns and look at antique shops, then treat myself to something from a local cafe before heading home.
From Reading to Action
Okay, so you’ve just read through a list of 9 things to do by yourself that will get you outside of the house. But will you actually do any of them?
Your Homework for this Post: Look at your schedule and see where you have some free time in the next week. Go ahead, pull out your calendar right now. I’ll wait.
Got it? Good. Now, pick an available slot of time in the next week where you can have, say, two or three hours to yourself.
Which of the 9 suggestions above interested you the most? Was it going to a cafe? Checking out an art exhibit? Journaling on a park bench?
Whatever it is, pencil it into your schedule this week.
Want to start something more involved, like volunteering or attending a class? Put it on your to-do list to find an organization you want to work with or a class you want to take, and make it your goal to be signed up for something new by the end of the week.
Now get out there and have some fun on your own!
Sincerely,
Pssst. Are you a wannabe traveler? Find out how to sate your wanderlust while staying at home!
Do your mornings lowkey kinda suck? Find out how to create your own kick-ass morning routine!
Do you enjoy spending a day out alone?
Can you think of any other things to do by yourself outside of the house?
Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below! ⬇️⬇️⬇️
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