Summary

An individual reflects on their journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation through a solo trip to Barcelona after a period of personal and professional challenges.

Abstract

The author, facing a challenging period in life without a specific inciting incident, decides to take a solo trip to Spain to avoid burnout. During their time in Barcelona, they engage in various activities without a set plan, embracing solitude and spontaneity. From relaxing on the beach to exploring cultural sites, the author experiences a range of emotions and activities that lead to a renewed sense of self-love and respect. The trip highlights the importance of nurturing one's relationship with oneself to achieve personal growth and happiness.

Opinions

The author believes that despite life's difficulties, it should still be manageable, suggesting resilience is key to overcoming challenges.
They express that taking time off for self-care is crucial to prevent burnout, indicating the importance of recognizing one's limits.
The author values the experience of being alone and observes that many others also enjoy their own company, challenging the stigma associated with solo activities.
They suggest that doing things spontaneously and without overthinking can lead to a more fulfilling experience.
The author emphasizes that the most important relationship one can have is with oneself, and achieving comfort in solitude is a significant personal milestone.
They note that individuals who are content in their own company often exude joy, implying that inner peace and happiness are interconnected.

Who are you when you’re alone?

Last couple of months, life has been more difficult than it has been in a long time. And as nothing, in particular, happened to make me feel that way, I started wondering why.

Yes, my job isn’t easy, and yes, I haven’t had a break in a while. And my workload increased, and I got a promotion. And my partner works 24/7. And we moved house. And there was some family drama back home. But that’s all life — even when it’s not perfect, it should be manageable.

So in order not to burn out, cut my hair and move to a faraway island with no access to the internet, I decided to take some time off and travel around Spain.

After a week-long congress in Paris, where each day consisted of approximately 34 hours of lectures, meetings, and work dinners, my feet were ready for some sand and no shoes.

The train headed to Barcelona was flying at 291 km/h, and even at that speed, it couldn’t be fast enough. But then I arrived.

It was warm, humid and sunny. And I was alone, with no plan and nobody to align with. Scary and exciting at the same time.

“A table for one, please,” became a standard sentence during that week. I feared it might look weird, but the more I observed, the more I saw I wasn’t the only one. Some people had books to keep them company, some had computers or phones, some had magazines… some had nothing. They would just enjoy their moment and watch life around them. Breathe, enjoy, let your mind rest. Meditate.

My plan was simple: don’t overthink and do whatever you feel like doing.

I went to the beach.

I drank sangria (probably more often than I should have).

Hotel Voraport, rooftop bar. Photo by author

I bought some shoes.

Atelier de Ballerinas, Barcelona. Photo by author.

I did tourist stuff.

Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona. Photo by author

I started noticing street art.

Street art Barcelona, artist unknown. Photo by author

I cried in a church, overwhelmed by its beauty.

Basilica de Santa Maria del Pi, Barcelona. Photo by author

I danced salsa.

El Bombón Salsa, Barcelona. Photo by author

I had dinner with a friend who I have known for two years but never met in person until this trip.

I was amused by parrots.

And then I went home, full of energy and love. But more importantly, with a new love and respect for myself.

The most important relationship you have is the one with yourself. The moment you feel comfortable in your own body with your own thoughts, in silence, is the moment you move to the next level. We all know that one person who has that, and they always radiate joy.

So, who are you when you’re alone?