How to Enjoy Being Alone

We were created to enjoy relationships. From birth, our mothers sustained and nurtured us. As children, our families, teachers and playmates helped us learn and grow. As adults, we benefit from relationships with friends, partners, colleagues and sometimes children. Yet no matter how many people are in your inner circle, there will be times when -- by choice or by circumstance -- you will find yourself alone. While being alone may have negative connotations, it can actually become a pleasurable time for you to nurture yourself.

Instructions

• 1

  Try something you have always wanted to endeavor but couldn't convince your family or friends to do with you. It can be anything from sampling food from an ethnic restaurant, taking in an art exhibit or jumping out of a plane (with professional assistance, of course). Make it something that is fun and exciting to you.

• 2

  Pamper yourself. Head to a local spa for a well-deserved massage, visit your favorite nail or hair salon, or indulge yourself at home with a luxurious bubble bath or a long, decadent nap.

• 3

  Do something fun that you would be too embarrassed to try with people around. Turn the stereo up loud and play some music you love. It doesn't matter if it is '80s bubblegum pop or show tunes; remember, no one is listening but you. Sing at the top of your lungs and jump on the furniture if you feel like it. Let loose and have some fun.

• 4

  Pick up the book or stack of magazines you have been meaning to read. Find the most comfortable spot in your house and read. No interruptions, no guilt -- just you and your literature.

• 5

  Volunteer. If you find yourself with more alone time than you would like and are beginning to feel down about it, give of your time and talents to help someone less fortunate. Helping others will help you feel more connected on a grander scale, and you will be making someone else's life better, too.