1. Spontaneous

Making arrangements to go out with friends can be a hassle, especially if you're meeting up as a group. You have to agree on a time, place and what you're going to do. Going out on your own means that you can be completely spontaneous. You can go out if you feel like it, or change your mind about what you want to do. It's totally flexible—perfect for those days when you just need a change of scenery without the back-and-forth.

2. Relaxing

Going out on your own can also be more relaxing than having company. You don't have to worry about keeping anyone else happy, or deal with their complaints about their life, relationship, or job. Instead, you can please yourself. You can go where you want and do what you like, rather than having to miss out because the other person or people don't want to go there. It’s the ultimate form of self-care.

3. Easy to Choose

Have you ever arranged to go to the movies with a friend, only to find that choosing the film takes longer than the movie itself? She's seen the one you want to see, you don't like the genre she wants to see, and the one that you both want to see is on when you're at work. Going out alone makes it so easy to choose what you do! You can even check out reviews on IMDb and pick exactly what fits your mood.

4. Budget

Going out on your own can also be easier on your budget. Going out as a group often means that you end up subsidising other people, or spending more than you intended. Perhaps you end up eating out afterwards when you'd rather go home. And if you have a flexible timetable, you can go to the cinema during the day, when it's cheaper and your friends are at work. You can find great matinee deals on Fandango.

5. Own Company

Some people are happy with their own company, and there's nothing wrong with that. So don't feel obliged to go out with other people; if you want to go out on your own, then go right ahead. You're doing what you want, and you shouldn't feel you have to socialise if you're not in the mood for it. It's about building self-confidence and being comfortable in your own skin.

6. Easy Getting a Ticket

If you want to go see a popular show, you may find it easier to get a single ticket. Most people are going with friends and want to sit together, which leaves odd seats dotted about the theater. So you could actually have a better choice of seats than if you were looking for two or more seats. Sites like Ticketmaster often have "single seat" options that are much closer to the stage.

7. Meeting Potential Partners

If you're single, going out alone makes it more likely that you'll get chatting to potential partners. Guys may not want to approach you if you're with friends. You're also more likely to meet the kind of guy you get on with, as you'll already have an interest in common. If you’re looking to meet new people in a structured way, Meetup is also a fantastic resource for solo explorers.

So don't be held back because you're worried that people will think it's strange to be out alone. They probably won't even notice. Just enjoy your own company; take a book for quiet moments or look at your phone. If you've been asking yourself, "is it weird to go out alone?" remember that the most confident people are often those seen enjoying their own company. So, where are you heading on your next solo adventure?