You don’t always need others to have a great time

Last summer, I spent pretty much the whole time sitting inside my house, bored out of my mind, waiting for a job I had to start (long story, doesn't end well). So, since I had no part time job to go to, I needed to find ways to fill my time. I did arrange to spend time with friends, but when everyone has their own summer plans (Gaeltacht, J1s, work, holidays, etc), sometimes you can find yourself with lots of free time and no one to spend it with.

This is what happened to me, and instead of finding something constructive to do with my time, I spent the 3 months inside, playing Animal Crossing on my 3DS, constantly refreshing social media in the hopes that someone has posted something in the last 30 seconds and flicking through mind numbing tv shows trying to find something worth watching. I actually felt like I was going crazy.

This time round, I made a decision at the beginning of the summer that I would not let the same thing happen. It really is very easy to fall into that tired haze of internet, tv, internet, tv, oh look, it's sunny out….internet, tv. The problem is once you fall into that pit of boredom it can be hard to actually find the motivation to pull yourself back out. The best way to avoid ever falling into it is to not rely on others to be there in order for you to have a good time – you should learn to enjoy your own company.

Now straight away, I want to make the point that you shouldn't cut other people out completely – that's not healthy and it's important to maintain social relationships and keep in touch with friends. However, on those few occasions where there's somewhere you'd like to go or something you'd like to do but no one is available to join you, don't be afraid to just go by yourself!

This summer, although I do have a reliable job this time, I find every week I've got a day or two where I have no plans and lots of time to fill. Instead of moping about the house driving myself insane, I try to make sure I get outside. I go cycling by myself (sometimes even if it's raining!), I go for a walk around the park, I get the bus into town and find somewhere to sit and read my book, even just a walk to the shop can help me feel better.

Of course you don't have to go outside, there's plenty to do at home – reading, baking, music… you could even spend your time writing for SpunOut.ie! The point is, you're not allowing yourself to waste your summer away in complete boredom just because others are busy. You can get up and do things anyway!

In order to make the most of your summer, you don't need other people. Make plans with friends and family and have a good time, but don't forget that it's okay to do things by yourself once in a while!