Let me start off by saying that the title of this article and the fact that Valentine’s Day was on Sunday is purely coincidental. In case you are thinking this article will remedy your singleness or mock the people who paraded around with their giant teddy bears and vibrant roses…sadly it won’t.

Regardless of your relationship status, I’m hoping this article will instead bring you to appreciate the simple act of being on your own.

There truly is an art to being entirely alone. Excluding yourself from people does not always mean you are lonely. When you enable yourself to just be by yourself the result is inexplicable. You are able to fully recognize just how much you love your own company. You don’t have to worry about catering to the needs of others, saying the correct thing, wearing the right clothes, or really anything at all. You’re able to make the decisions you want when you want.

You can just be yourself.

There’s also a freedom and solitude that comes with being alone. Sometimes you need a break from all the surrounding chaos to resort back to yourself. Dealing with your own needs and feelings instead of those of everyone else can do wonders for your peace of mind. It helps serve as a reminder of who you are and what you want in life.

The thoughts that pop into your head when there is nothing to distract you are incredible. Try not to spend your spare time checking text messages, scrolling through Instagram and updating statuses. Simply disconnect. Separate yourself from the outside world long enough to fully connect with yourself. You’ll begin to use your energy to think about the things you want to do versus the things you have to do. Your mind will wander to the person you are now person as opposed to who you were in the past. You’ll reflect on the people you’ve met in your life that brought to this moment. And hopefully, you’ll understand how amazing you genuinely are.

So my challenge to you is be willingly to let yourself be alone. Whether it is for twenty minutes or an entire day, the duration of time isn’t what matters. The act of merely taking the time to be on your own is what counts.

Driving around aimlessly while blaring your favorite songs, doing yoga, treating yourself to a cup of coffee, traveling to a new destination, running errands, or taking a walk are all valid options.

Enjoy the time you get to yourself and savor your own company.