Friday Feeling - 10 fun things to do on the weekend by yourself

'Me time' is very important. We're always scared or apprehensive to do things alone and often find ourselves frantically texting or calling friends on a Friday, to figure out plans for the weekend. However, this time I urge you to try something new. 

Spending time alone is a way to recharge your mental batteries and is a healthy practice every once in a while. So get over your fear of missing out or your reservations about being seen somewhere solo, and embark on a mission to treat yourself to having the time of your life with...yourself! 

If you're confused about where to start, we've got a list of fun things you can do...

1. Take yourself on a dinner date 

There's absolutely no shame in sitting at a restaurant and eating alone. In fact, once you get the hang of it, you'll want to do it again and again. Take a book along, if you like, and immerse yourself in some scrumptious food and good reads — really, what's better than that? Try to resist the urge to look at your phone and take your time as you enjoy ordering anything you want without anyone else asking for a bite!

2. Sing karaoke

Leave your shyness at home and step out of your comfort zone. Be bold! Pick a spot you never go to (that way you won't miss it if you can't show your face there again), and sing your heart out to a bunch of strangers. The feeling is liberating and the adrenaline rush is simply awesome. If you can do this, you are winning at life, my friend! 

3. Go shopping 

Make a trip to the mall, alone. Take your own sweet time and try on everything in sight. Browse, buy, don't buy - that's your choice. But that time spent with yourself will help you relax and unwind to the max. Grab a coffee and stroll around, like you've got all the time and money in the world!

4. Take the longest, hottest bath of your life

Never underestimate the healing power of a long, hot shower. Time spent in a bath, is known to be the best hour to think, reflect and just be alone with your thoughts. And if you have a tub, all the better! Turn on some soothing music and enjoy a long soak with no fear of unwelcome interruptions.

5. Travel somewhere 

Even if it's for a day or two, if you live in a city that has picturesque or interesting places around, pack your bags and head out. Drive down or take a bus and listen to some good music on the way. Pack super light and don't forget to take some pictures while exploring. 

6. Experiment in the kitchen 

Make or bake something you've never attempted before. If you try out new recipes on your own and mess up, the only hungry, disappointed person you have to deal with is yourself. You can work on perfecting the dish until it's just right — then serve up a flawless result the next time you're with friends, and act like it was your first try!

7. Have a spa day 

Book an appointment for yourself at a spa and spend the day pampering your senses. By the end of it, you'll feel rejuvenated and brand new. 

8. Go watch a movie 

Get away from the stress of work, family, and the business of everyday life and escape to a movie theater where you can get lost in the story and truly relax. Don't forget to buy yourself a large tub of your favourite popcorn that you don't have to share! 

9. Clean out your closet 

For those of you who have a slight OCD like me, spend the weekend cleaning out your closet. Arrange your clothes according to colours or style or both, get your shoes cleaned and in order and wash out those make up brushes. It's not as hectic as it sounds and in fact, can be fun, if done with music. 

10. Write a letter 

Kick it old school and write a letter (not an email). Reach out to someone who made an impact on your life and let them know in the form of a heartfelt letter. No one gets to the end of her life and regrets showing love or gratitude. What people do regret are the things they never said. Also, writing can be a huge stress buster...try it to know! 

Doing stuff alone, I’ll admit, is scary. Going out alone? Even scarier. The idea of going somewhere without the protection and company of your squad, is enough to make you want to stay home and watch reruns of 'Friends' or 'Two and a half men'. But why should you spend your Friday night alone on the couch just because you're single, or because your friends are not around? Believe it or not, going out alone can actually be really fun. And besides, if you never try, you'll never know. So whether it's trying your hand at a new dance class or going to a nightclub by yourself, step out and have a good time. Remember, most great things don't come from comfort zones! 

Have you ever done something alone and enjoyed it? Let us know in the comments below...