As the song goes “one is the loneliest number that you'll ever do.” The song paints a picture of darkness surrounding the idea of being by yourself for a long period of time. But in my honest opinion, I would prefer to be alone than with a friend or group of people.

Don't get me wrong, I love hanging out with my friends and family, and we have a good time together. I don't consider myself an introverted person and I'm definitely not the person to say “I hate everyone.” I think the people I surround myself with would consider me a people person. I just truly enjoy being alone. I guess you could call me a walking contradiction.

As an only child I've had to spend alone time quite often. Come home everyday after school by myself, make a snack, “do my homework”, watch tv, and wait for my parents come home, repeat for the next 8 years. It's what I'm used to, and I'm okay with that. I've noticed some people who can't seem to be alone, come from larger families, which is understandable since they didn't really have the choice in being alone or not.

One aspect of being alone I love is that, I can think smarter and more clearly. “Two heads are better than one” has never really been a true statement for me. I feel like I have more in depth thoughts instead of having others around me unknowingly influencing my little talks. Alone, I can think in depth about how my day went or how to change a situation I've put myself in.

I feel more independent. Coming to college has truly allowed me to accept my wanting of being alone. It's during my alone time I get my homework and chores done. I don't feel weird about sitting alone in the dining hall or walking around campus by myself. I can go and do my own thing. I don't have to worry about where someone is or trying to please them. I only have myself to care for.

I do understand why this could be dangerous for some people though. If not use to it, too much alone time can really mess with your ideas of your own self worth and insecurities.

However, I don't think you can truly figure out who you are without spending some quality alone time. It's how I form my own thoughts and opinions since no one is around to influence me. It's how you get to know your own quirks that make you so genuine and lovable toward the people you come into contact with. So set aside some alone time in your day. You won't regret it.