Sometimes you have to spend time alone, whether you want to or not. And while being alone can be nice, it can also get boring, especially when you have no idea what to do. You don’t want to spend hours on your phone doomscrolling either, because that never really makes you feel better.
But don’t worry, I made a list of things you can do when you’re alone. And honestly, I kind of like doing things alone. Of course, there are activities I prefer to share with other people, like going to concerts or events. But I also really enjoy doing things like shopping alone, where I don’t have to slow down for anyone else.
Things You Can Do When You Are Alone
- Watch a documentary – Pick a topic that truly interests you. I’m currently obsessed with true crime documentaries.
- Read books – This is absolutely my favorite activity when I’m alone. I can sit down for hours and escape into a completely different world. Especially when the book is really good, nothing else matters.
- Watch your favorite series – When you’re alone, you don’t have to compromise. You can binge-watch all your guilty pleasures without explaining yourself.
- Watch your favorite movie – I personally love watching a really sad movie when I’m alone, the kind that makes me cry uncontrollably.
- Offline evening – It sounds boring, but it’s actually very calming. No phone, no scrolling, just you and whatever you feel like doing.
- Listen to a podcast – Find an inspiring, comforting, or interesting podcast and just listen. Perfect for slow evenings.
- Journal – Write down your thoughts and feelings. It’s a great way to release stress and clear your mind.
- Make a vision board – A vision board helps you stay focused on your goals and dreams.
- Write a letter or card – Instead of sending a quick message, write something by hand. It feels more personal and thoughtful.
- Write a letter to your future self – Write down your goals, dreams, and thoughts, and send it to yourself. Receiving it later is surprisingly emotional and fun.
- Make your own jewelry – Create bracelets or necklaces just for fun.
- Color or puzzle – Do a sudoku or challenge yourself with a 1,000-piece puzzle.
- Declutter your space – A clean home really does equal a calmer mind.
- Declutter your clothes – Go through your wardrobe and let go of items you never wear.
- Digital clean-up – Organize your photos, emails, and documents. We often forget our digital clutter.
- Give your home a mini makeover – Add new pillows, a blanket, or candles to make your space cozier.
- Bake something – You get to enjoy the process and a delicious dessert at the end.
- . Make your favorite meal – I would make Italian food, buy a tiramisu for dessert, and fully enjoy it.
- Treat yourself to coffee or a snack – Go to your favorite place and get something you love. I often walk to my favorite café for a croissant.
- Lunch alone – Go to a nice place and order something fancy, just for you.
- Go for a walk – Simple, healthy, and relaxing. You can combine it with getting coffee or tea.
- Go for a bike ride – Very normal in the Netherlands, but still a lovely way to enjoy good weather.
- Yoga – Relax your mind while making your body stronger.
- Workout – Do a light workout at home or go to the gym.
- Meditate – Sit in silence for 10–20 minutes and just breathe.
- Watch the sunrise or sunset – Be present and enjoy the moment, especially near water or in nature.
- Visit a botanical garden – Perfect if you love plants, flowers, and peaceful surroundings.
- Go shopping – I actually prefer shopping alone. I can focus, get what I need, and leave.29. Visit a thrift store – Bookstores and thrift stores are my happy places. I need to see everything.
- Visit a thrift store – Bookstores and thrift stores are my happy places. I need to see everything.
- Go to the cinema – Watch the newest movies and don’t forget the popcorn.
- Go to a museum – Look at art, paintings, and sculptures at your own pace.
- Visit a new place in your country – You don’t always have to travel far to explore something new.
- Go on a city trip – If you’re alone for a whole weekend, consider visiting a beautiful city and immersing yourself in a different culture.
- Go to an event – Look up local events and just go.
- Go to a concert alone – It sounds scary, but it can be incredibly fun. Stop caring about what others might think.
- Learn a new language – I use Duolingo daily, and I’ve made so much progress.
- Follow an online course – Learn something new, like playing an instrument or a creative skill.
- Try something new – A new recipe, hobby, or activity you’ve never done before.
- Tackle your to-do list – When you’re alone, there are fewer distractions. Put your phone away and see how much you can actually get done.
- Plan a spa night at home – Face masks, nail polish, cozy pajamas, and total relaxation.
- Pinterest inspiration time – I try to limit social media, but Pinterest is my favorite. It’s calming, inspiring, and really understands my taste.
Photo by Raymond Yeung on Unsplash