I N D E P E N D E N C E

Theres something glorious about being independent. I don't know if it's because I grew up with divorced parents, or having two elder sisters who could always do things before me, but I have always craved it, that feeling of doing things for yourself, because you could, without anybody telling you otherwise.

When I say independence I don't only mean supporting yourself. This is something I personally find empowering in itself. But also in the sense that you are comfortable being alone. I am someone who has always been as happy in her own company as she is in other peoples. Not reliant on constant conversation or contact, I can pass a day in absolute uninterrupted bliss, doing my own thing without feeling alone. Some people don't understand this. It's alien for them to not always be in contact with someone or another, especially as everyone is so accessible through so many social media platforms; facebook, snapchat, whatsapp etc. I don't know if it's because I grew up with divorced parents or elder sisters, but even as a child I was able to keep myself amused for hours on end playing with various toys in make believe scenarios. Doing things alone didn't phase me, and I think I've carried this trait through into adulthood. And I'm glad I did.

To be comfortable by yourself also means you don't waste the time you do spend with others in bad company. You are selective. You don't settle for substandard friendships or relationships because you are more comfortable in other peoples company than your own. In owning this independence you choose people who enrich your life, add something to it, not just people who fill the gap for companionship you feel you need. I don't want to preach or lecture, thats not what I write these posts to do. And it probably doesn't help that I am the blunt person in my friendship group and family, so maybe too often just say it how it is. But time is precious; this is something I'm realising as the weeks fly by (I'm already going into my 6th week at the new job). Life is way too short for fickle friendships or 'comfortable' relationships. Take some time to yourself, see how it works for you. You may be freeing up some space for something or someone amazing.

More to follow!