Embracing Solitude: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Dining alone is not abnormal or something to shy away from. It’s a beautiful, bold, and liberating act.

Perhaps I’m finally getting comfortable with who I am. Maybe I’m letting go of the old idea that my worth is measured by who accompanies me, rather than by how whole I feel within myself.

On the first night of my vacation, I went out to dinner. Alone. There was no grand celebration—just me, a gentle breeze, and a desire to nourish my body and spirit. As I approached the restaurant, I saw through the windows families bonding, couples leaning in close, and laughter drifting like music over shared plates. I felt a slight ache, but not from loneliness. It was just an awareness of the world around me.

Nevertheless, I smiled and walked in. "Table for one, please," I said. The hostess hesitated, perhaps surprised, but then guided me through the sea of tables to a seat on the outdoor patio. The sunlight felt like a warm embrace, and the breeze carried the delightful scent of a summer evening.

A moment later, the waitress approached. She looked at the scene: no companion, no distractions—just me. Then, with a kind and curious smile, she asked, "Just one?"

"Yes, and it’s perfectly fine," I replied, feeling grounded and confident.

She nodded, then did something small yet profoundly human. She said, "Then I’m going to sit down with you to take your order." And so she did. Not in a rush, nor out of pity, but with genuine presence. This wasn’t sympathy; it was empathy. It was connection.

In that simple gesture, I felt acknowledged—not as someone "without someone," but as a complete individual who chooses their own company and isn’t apologetic about it.

This moment was a true example of self-love: taking up space without shrinking back, savoring my meal, and laughing with the waitress. I felt the sun on my skin and saw the world not as a stage for comparison, but as an open field for experience.

Dining alone is not abnormal or something to shy away from. It’s a beautiful, bold, and liberating act.

Here’s what I’ve discovered: Your value doesn't diminish when you say, “Just one.” Sometimes, "just one" is everything.

A Call to Action: Start Your Own Journey

To every person out there wondering if it's acceptable to treat herself to a meal, to travel solo, to indulge in dessert, or to dance alone on the beach or dance floor—yes. Yes, it is. You are not missing anything. Instead, you are meeting yourself.

And when you do, you'll discover the most delightful company of all: you.

Ready to take the first step? Don't wait for a special occasion. Book that table for one, buy that plane ticket, or simply walk to the park by yourself and enjoy the freedom of your own company. You’ll be so glad you did.