eating alone

I ate at a restaurant by myself for the first time today. I initially intended to order my sushi as takeout and then be on my merry way; but as I neared the restaurant, I decided on a whim that I would stay. I stepped in thinking that the experience was going to be awkward and uncomfortable and I was frankly quite scared that my self-consciousness would be too overwhelming. I tried my best to push those terrifying thoughts aside, and ended up finding the solitude surprisingly comforting. I think I'd be happy to do it again.

I know a lot of people believe in the idea of stepping out of their comfort zone, but it is really something entirely different when you actually take action and do it. Being alone can be frightening sometimes, especially when everyone around you is not. Use the opportunity to grapple with that fear, triumph with your individuality and embrace that solitude while it's there; because if you can't enjoy your own company, how would you expect other people to?

So, I encourage everyone to try eating out alone at least once, especially if the idea scares you a bit because you never know what you will discover and love.