10 fun things to do alone

Fun things to do on your own for a little me-time

As humans we tend to be quite social creatures, however, doing things on your own can actually be good for you. Solo activities can help you to mature and grow as a person. They can build character and help you become more independent and resilient. As your confidence grows, you’ll feel empowered and become better equipped to deal with the many things life throws your way. You'll also become more empathetic, your creativity will get a boost, you may even become more productive.

A little alone time gives you a moment to recharge, to take a break from making other people happy. You’ll start to learn new interests and ultimately, do more of what makes you happy. Let’s look at a few fun things you can do solo.

Visit your favourite local coffee shop and take time out

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE YOUR LOCAL; A FAMILIAR FACE, GOOD VIBES AND YOUR ‘USUAL’ BEING BREWED BEFORE YOU’VE EVEN ORDERED

There’s nothing like your local; a familiar face, good vibes and your ‘usual’ being brewed before you’ve even ordered. A change of scenery can be great for both productivity and relaxation. Why not grab your laptop and get in a bit of work whilst enjoying your morning coffee. Or bring a book and take some time out to read and people watch. Your local cafe can be a haven when you want to find a little me-time. And at the same time, you’re helping to support a local business. It’s a win-win. See where else you can Shop Small and get behind your local community.

Treat yourself to a meditation, yoga or pilates class, improve your quality of life

Meditation, yoga and pilates are good for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Meditation can give you greater mental clarity and support your emotional health. It reduces stress, controls anxiety and promotes a more positive outlook. Yoga and pilates helps your health holistically, giving you greater flexibility, muscle tone and strength, improving your posture, energy and vitality. It can also reduce stress, giving you a better night’s sleep.

Take a relaxing facial or massage, put a smile on your face

Yes, a facial or massage is the secret to relaxation. It can ease muscle pain, rejuvenate your mind and put some colour back in your cheeks. The benefits of both are well beyond the immediate physical pluses. Your stress levels reduce, you become less anxious, you sleep better, your physical well-being improves, you become more productive, you feel good about yourself and you have more to give. You become a better you. So, including one in your self-care routine every now and then is a must.

Explore your local museum or art gallery, travel through time

Museums can broaden your mind, give you a greater perspective and teach you a lesson about humanity and history. Beyond walking the shoes of world-famous artists, it allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures and different worlds. You are viewing or experiencing original works and genuine artefacts only found and exhibited in these hallowed halls, some being a once in a lifetime opportunity. You’ll be richer for the experience.

Take a hike, it’s good for your soul

Bush tracks, mountain trails, fresh air, Mother Nature, away you go. Hiking is a powerful cardio workout, that builds lower body strength and improves your balance, and it’s great for your headspace too. Unplugging for a while, helps reduce stress, clears your mind, and opens up your senses to your surroundings.

Hiking is also great for a change of scenery - we spend so much time in front of a screen these days, why not get out and find a new place to explore.

Go shopping, get more than you bargained for

Shopping goes well beyond just stocking up on your daily needs. Believe it or not, shopping also comes with therapeutic benefits. It lifts your mood, helps reduce stress, keeps you active and mentally alert, and even gives you a sense of achievement when you find that bargain. And shopping alone means you can go wherever you want and browse for hours on end. Hitting the weekend markets, attending a local swap meet, or even browsing the best vintage in your local charity shop is a great way to grab a bargain and keep a circular economy. You never know what unexpected treasures you might find.

Enrol in a class, master something new

Learning something new is good for your happiness and it helps you to grow. It can foster greater creativity, build your confidence and keeps your mind humming along. Why not try something that you love or have an interest in to help motivate you. Maybe you’re curious about art or have always wanted to play a musical instrument? Whatever it is, doing it on your own means you don’t have to rely on anyone else, and mastering your chosen interest can give you a great sense of accomplishment. Looking for some ideas? Check out our article 'New skills to learn’.

Finish that project, feel accomplished

Seeing a project through to the end is yet another endeavour that can give you a sense of achievement. Plus, it can take a little load off your mind, motivate you to do more, and you might learn something along the way. It feels great to get stuff done. It might be something as simple as updating your CV, tackling your reading list or completing that 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle. Or maybe you’ve started a small home reno project that just needs the finishing touches, or there are some home repairs you never got around to. Whatever it is, get it done, tick it off the list and feel good about it.

Think about the things you can do on your own. Think about how good a little me-time is for you. Think about all the things that make you happy. Now, go and do them.

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