The Power of One
February 19th, 2025
Writer: Eve Collon
Editor: Emily Cavero
I never envisioned myself living alone at age twenty. More importantly, I never envisioned myself loving living alone at age twenty. I shamelessly slept in the same bed as my parents for the majority of my childhood. As a sorority girl, I moved into a room filled with other girls if my roommate was gone. It is safe to assume that I have never enjoyed doing things by myself, even if it was just sleeping. Ironically, I find myself writing this in my studio apartment completely and utterly content and alone.
The idea of being by oneself is a common fear of countless individuals- it irks a feeling of sadness and isolation. For me, the feeling of being alone represents maturity, peace, and independence. When I ultimately made the decision to live solo for my junior year of college, I didn’t receive positive feedback from most. I was viewed as the black sheep of housing decisions. The reactions I encountered nearly instilled doubt regarding my decision. However, I quickly discovered that my apartment would not only serve as a physical shelter but also as a classroom for many implicit lessons.
The walls of my studio have transitioned from concrete boundaries to effortless protection. Being alone means unapologetically being myself. The quaint space allows me to be genuine- whether that be laughing at an out-of-pocket text or crying if I simply had a bad day. Regardless of my emotions, I do not have to meet the demanding expectations of the outside world. Because of this, I have adapted to an existence in which I am my biggest supporter. Instead of giving others the power to determine the course of my life, I feel that I can confidently grasp my world in my own two hands.
Upon announcing my decision to live alone, I was shocked at how much others believed that my mental health would decline following an innate lack of socialization. However, that could not be further from what I know today. I am able to be everyone’s roommate while always having a home base to return to. I avoid isolation but also unrepentantly indulge in a solo movie night when I need to shut out the noise around me. Not only do I feel safe physically, but mentally I have never been more tranquil.
I can say with great confidence that rather than dreading time alone, I cherish it. I have achieved a natural sense of improved focus, and emotional regulation, along with increased productivity. I do not have to wait for anyone to move forward with a plan to study, journal, or go to the gym. I am in the driver's seat of my life. Not only am I managing the wheel, but I am steadily in control.
Sometimes you have to take the road less traveled and cope with the uncomfortable impacts of change until you find the right groove. The power of being alone can be overwhelming, but that rush does not need to be negative. If you properly take the reins of your life, you can view loneliness in the way that I now do- beautifully complex and unique.
Photo Credits: Zoe Romeu
