I wear a lot of makeup because I love cosmetics very, very much. I find it fun to put them on slowly while watching an episode of a show I enjoy. In Portland, I've noticed, most people do not wear quite this much makeup everywhere, so I sometimes feel a bit over-the-top and, as some might say, clownlike.
But a full face of makeup is what makes me happy, as well as that yellow sweater my awesome mom gave me for Christmas, so I wore both and this was the result. If you venture too far outside your comfort zone because you're afraid of what strangers will think of how you look, you'll wind up feeling worse and even less comfortable. I could've done the whole "natural beauty" thing or whatever, but as we all know, that's a stupid myth and you should wear whatever the hell you feel like, no matter what guys with signs say on the Internet.
When it comes to music that makes me feel all sorts of excited, I lean towards songs like "Dancing On My Own" by Robyn (anybody who watched season 1 of Girls likely does, too), as well as anything from "The Writing's On The Wall" by Destiny's Child and most Why?'s discography. But whatever soundtrack makes you feel all sorts of stoked to be on your own, that's what you should listen to! I find that this particularly works if you play the songs while driving or otherwise transporting yourself to the venue your event's at. That way, you won't sweat through your shirt with the anxiety of going to your destination unaccompanied.
Photo: Robyn / Konichiwa
I wear a lot of makeup because I love cosmetics very, very much. I find it fun to put them on slowly while watching an episode of a show I enjoy. In Portland, I've noticed, most people do not wear quite this much makeup everywhere, so I sometimes feel a bit over-the-top and, as some might say, clownlike.
But a full face of makeup is what makes me happy, as well as that yellow sweater my awesome mom gave me for Christmas, so I wore both and this was the result. If you venture too far outside your comfort zone because you're afraid of what strangers will think of how you look, you'll wind up feeling worse and even less comfortable. I could've done the whole "natural beauty" thing or whatever, but as we all know, that's a stupid myth and you should wear whatever the hell you feel like, no matter what guys with signs say on the Internet.
Most people think things are less awkward if there's less waiting time beforehand. That part is sort of true, but trust me, there's nothing worse than coming in late to an event that has a designated start time.
If it's a casual affair, then cool -- by all means, pop on in whenever you feel. But creaking open a door when somebody is speaking to a rapt audience who will all turn around and stare at you if you're late (yay for adulthood being just like high school!) is not worth it, so plan ahead and get there early. You're more likely to get a seat, as well, which is always nice if the event is going on for a while. Who knows, maybe you'll even meet somebody else who's on his or her own!
Photo: CeresB / Flickr
Whether it's coffee, soda or a martini, it's just sort of nice to have something in your hand to carry and sip.
Obvious pro-tip: Do not get drunk; being alone and drunk is not fun, safe or appealing.
Photo: Rod Senna / Flickr
If you overhear a conversation that interests you, going up and saying hello is surprisingly effective. If the people turn out to be assholes, then just walk away (don't give them your name until you're sure they're not total dicks). If they turn out to be nice, then hey, you've made new friends! Go you!
Photo: Normanack / Flickr
There is nothing that screams, "DO NOT APPROACH ME" quite like a person being hunched over, intensely texting in order to not look alone. We all do it sometimes, but it's kinda silly and we're not really fooling anybody anyway. Just walk around the room, take a look at what's going on and be open to new stuff.
Photo: Moriza / Flickr
Okay, this goes along with the texting: do not be rude. Granted, this should already be a given in terms of your everyday behavior, but when you're alone, being rude is especially awkward. Say "please" and "thank you" to your server or bartender, don't text while somebody is talking onstage (if there is one) and just generally display respect for those around you, as well as the setting (i.e. don't toss trash on the floor). Plus, you could be missing the chance to meet lovely people.
Photo: Mary Poppins
Anybody who judges you for going places alone is a douchebag. Seriously. Chances are, most people will either not notice or will think it's kinda awesome that you are all sorts of bold like that, even if you're shaking on the inside. At least, I will think you are awesome, as I totally admire people who can go to events and parties on their own since I have never been capable of doing so. I am aware my approval means very little since I am just a faceless typing Internet robot, but still -- you have my e-admiration!
Photo: Freaks & Geeks
