Accepting Being Alone: Thoughts and Questions of a Solo Traveler
What is loneliness?
How do we come to terms with the feeling of being truly alone?
How can we find strength in being alone?
How does loneliness manifest itself in our lives? How can we cope with it?
These are some of the many questions I have been grappling with daily these past few days as I search for ways to feel connected and understood. And as always, I am writing this blog to understand myself a little deeper.
I remember the day I left home to study and travel four years ago. The feeling of being alone was both liberating and terrifying at the same time. When I think of my loneliness, I usually go back to this time. But in reality, when I think about it, I have been distancing myself from people for a very long time before that. My travels made it so that I was also physically unavailable.
At first, it was an exciting adventure — a chance to explore unknown countries and cultures with no one else to answer to but myself. But after four years on the road, today I find myself feeling more alone than ever before. I’ve explored new cities, eaten exotic foods, and learned more than I ever imagined. Yet, while there has been so much joy in my travels, there has also been a sense of loneliness that can be hard to shake off.
On the one hand, I have become fiercely independent and it is a feeling of strength knowing that I can navigate foreign lands by myself. But on the other hand, the distance between me and my family and has grown so wide that our conversations often feel strained and awkward. My friends have formed different groups in their own lives; I’m no longer part of their daily social circles. To make matters worse, my nomadic lifestyle can be lonely — I feel disconnected from others who are settling into routines that involve long-term relationships or careers.
When I travel alone, I often feel like no one truly knows where I am, who I am talking to, or what kind of experiences I am having — they’re all mine and mine only. It can be exciting to explore new places without anyone else there but me; in these moments, the loneliness feels empowering and adventurous. But at other times it can be overwhelming — I feel like an outsider everywhere I go and have no one to turn to if things don’t go according to plan.
I’m not sure if this feeling is something exclusive to me or if it’s something that other travelers feel too. There are so many questions swirling in my mind that make me wonder about the experiences and emotions of other travelers. Do they long for home when they’re away? Are they ever homesick? Do they ever get anxious while flying off to unfamiliar places? What are their thoughts and feelings during these times?
Traveling is an incredibly personal experience. I think it can be a time of great joy and discovery, but it can also be a time of immense loneliness. I believe that to some degree, every traveler feels alone at some point during their journey. Being apart from family and friends and in unfamiliar places creates feelings of isolation that are hard to shake off. Even when surrounded by other travelers or locals, the feeling of being on one’s own is still present for many people.
This feeling of loneliness isn’t necessarily negative though; in fact, it can serve as a reminder to appreciate the freedom associated with traveling. Taking a break from daily routines and expectations allows us to reconnect with ourselves and explore the world around us without limitations or judgment. When we recognize how empowering this sense of autonomy can be, it makes our travel experiences that much more meaningful and special.
When we learn how to, I think loneliness can also be an opportunity to explore our innermost feelings and desires, allowing us to develop strengths and find solace in ourselves. I have learned how to listen more deeply and observe the beauty around me without feeling rushed by the presence of others or having the need to share my thoughts with them. This has allowed me to appreciate stillness and discover creative solutions through reflection and contemplation that may not have been possible if I had remained in more stimulating environments.
But what if someone doesn’t have a home to go back to after their travels?
We all have a basic need for human companionship, yet there are times when we find ourselves feeling completely alone in the world. For me, it is usually after I complete an experience. What next? I often find myself wondering what life would be like if I settled down with the people who care about me most. Would my days still be filled with adventure? Would I miss those moments of solitude when all is quiet?
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by loneliness and fear of being alone, especially if we don’t have close family or friends nearby. But how can we accept this feeling of aloneness and move forward?
Accepting that we are alone in this world can be a difficult concept to grasp. It requires us to step outside of ourselves and accept the fact that no one else has our exact perspective. We must come to terms with the reality that, although we may have people who care for us and offer support, ultimately, it is up to us as individuals to make decisions about how we live our lives.
When can I accept that I am alone?
