Ava Sinclair
Eating alone in public is an art many of us haven’t mastered. Let’s face it, the idea of dining solo can be nerve-wracking.
But there’s a certain group of people unfazed by this. They’re comfortable being their own company, even in public settings.
This comfort often points to unique inner strengths they possess. And once you know what these strengths are, you might just find yourself inspired to embrace solo dining.
So, let’s take a closer look at the 9 unique strengths often displayed by those who can eat alone in public without batting an eyelid.
1) Embracing solitude
Let’s start off by stating the obvious – people who can comfortably dine alone in public aren’t afraid of solitude.
Now, to many of us, the idea of being alone can be unsettling. We may even view it as a sign of unpopularity or social awkwardness. But that’s far from the truth.
Those who enjoy their own company see solitude as a strength. It’s time for self-reflection, self-improvement and recharging.
In fact, some of the most successful and creative individuals have embraced solitude and used it to their advantage. Think Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, or JK Rowling.
2) Confidence in their own skin
Here’s something personal I’ve observed.
A few years ago, I had a colleague named Lisa. She had this habit of stepping out to eat lunch alone every day. Initially, we found it a bit odd. But what struck me the most was the confidence she exuded.
She didn’t hesitate to walk into a crowded restaurant, find a table for herself, and enjoy her meal in peace. There was no awkwardness, no restlessness, only a calm sense of ease.
It was clear she was comfortable in her own skin and didn’t feel the need to be validated by others’ presence to enjoy her meal.
This comfort and confidence are not only unique strengths but also admirable traits that many strive to achieve. It’s about being able to enjoy your own company and not needing others around to define your worth or happiness.
From Lisa’s example, we learn that people who can dine alone in public are often confident individuals who don’t let the presence or absence of others affect their contentment.
3) High levels of emotional intelligence
Those who regularly eat alone in public display a high level of emotional intelligence.
Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges and defuse conflict.
Interestingly, studies show that people with high emotional intelligence are often more successful in life than those with high IQs. This is because they are better at handling pressures and meeting challenges.
It’s not surprising then, that individuals who can comfortably eat alone might be riding high on emotional intelligence. They don’t let societal norms or pressures dictate their actions or mood.
Instead, they understand their emotions and can manage any discomfort or awkwardness that might come from dining alone.
4) Independence
Let’s talk about independence.
People who frequently dine alone in public aren’t just showing their comfort with solitude or their high emotional intelligence. They’re also displaying their independence.
Independence isn’t just about living on your own or making a living. It’s about being self-reliant and not needing the approval or company of others to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like a good meal.
Those who eat alone are often independent thinkers and doers. They make decisions for themselves, follow their own path and don’t let societal norms dictate their actions.
This level of independence is a strength that can lead to personal growth, resilience and self-satisfaction.
5) Fearlessness
It takes a certain level of fearlessness to dine alone in public. Many of us worry about what others might think. Will they think we’re lonely? Will they judge us?
But those who eat alone in public often don’t let these thoughts deter them. They’re not afraid of judgment or the potential stigma attached to solo dining.
This fearlessness extends beyond just dining. It’s a general attitude towards life that allows them to face challenges head-on, step out of their comfort zone, and ignore societal pressures.
6) Self-love
In this whirlwind of life, we often forget to take a moment for ourselves. To pause, breathe, and just be. But people who eat alone in public know the value of these moments.
They understand that loving oneself isn’t selfish, but necessary.
They cherish these moments of solitude because it gives them time to connect with themselves on a deeper level, to reflect on their day, and to enjoy their own company.
When they sit down to eat alone, they’re not just nourishing their bodies with food but also their souls with self-love. They appreciate their own company and understand that the most important relationship they will ever have is the one with themselves.
7) Adaptability
Change is the only constant in life, and adapting to it is a skill not everyone possesses.
I remember a time when my work required frequent travel. This meant eating alone in different cities, often in unfamiliar restaurants. Initially, it was daunting. But over time, I found a rhythm.
I learned to adapt to these solitary meals and even started looking forward to them.
It became a time of peace amidst the hustle of travel and work. It was adapting to this change that made me realize that solo dining isn’t just about eating alone – it’s about being comfortable with change and unpredictability.
Those who regularly eat alone in public are showcasing more than just independence or confidence – they are demonstrating their adaptability.
They’re comfortable with change and able to adjust to different situations, making the best of what they have.
8) Mindfulness
Eating alone in public is not just an act of independence or confidence. It’s an opportunity to practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment, and aware of where we are and what we’re doing. It’s a mental state that can provide peace and balance in our lives.
Those who dine alone have a chance to truly experience their meal, to savor each bite, appreciate the flavors, and enjoy the whole process without any distractions.
In a world that’s always rushing, being able to slow down and enjoy such moments is a unique strength.
9) Comfort with vulnerability
Eating alone in public is a raw act of vulnerability. It’s about sitting there, exposed, with all eyes potentially on you.
And guess what? Those who do it comfortably aren’t afraid of this vulnerability.
In fact, they embrace it. They understand that being vulnerable isn’t a sign of weakness but a mark of courage. It shows that they’re comfortable with who they are, flaws and all, and aren’t afraid to show it to the world.
This comfort with vulnerability is perhaps the most significant strength they display. It’s an acceptance of self, an openness to experience, and a willingness to step outside the comfort zone.
Make solitude your strength
At the end of the day, our society’s views on dining alone are more a reflection of our collective insecurities than of those brave enough to do it.
The act of eating alone in public is not a sign of loneliness or isolation, but rather an indication of one’s strength and comfort in their own skin. It’s about embracing solitude, being comfortable with vulnerability, and finding joy in one’s own company.
When we see someone dining alone, we shouldn’t feel pity or judgment. Instead, we should admire their strength and maybe even strive to find that same comfort within ourselves.
Because who knows? We might just find that dining alone, surrounded by the hum of life around us while we sit in our own peaceful bubble, can be an unexpectedly liberating experience.
