A Solo Quest into Self-Discovery and Confidence-Building
So often have we planned a trip, a visit to the cinema, a night at the theatre, or simply going for a stroll, to enjoy a drink, savouring a coffee, yet our desires remain unfulfilled due to the absence of company.
Most often, these plans are postponed due to the lack of synchronization in time or economic situations involving those who are part of the same plan. Not due to anyone’s fault, but rather the diverging paths life takes: when we have holidays, others don’t; when others have financial ease, we lack it; when they have free time, we’re occupied, and vice versa.
All these plans remain in the limbo of time, waiting for the involved parties to align in the same dimension of realization. Presently, we live in a society where each of us follows a different rhythm, caught in a whirlwind. It seems as if Time rushes by, and the days of yore, where there was time for everything, have faded away.
Perhaps this is why we increasingly encounter individuals who allow themselves to engage these activities solo. In my own experience, I’ve taken vacations alone, strolled alone, gone for a drink or coffee alone. When I say “alone,” I might not be entirely truthful, as I always have the company of Cookie, my dog, which prevents me from truly being alone and provides a certain sense of security and confidence.
This article is about my first experience going solo.
Escaping Routine: A Spontaneous Shift from Scotland to London’s Theatrical Delights
Due to my weariness and a long absence from any vacation, I had meticulously planned to take a week off for some much-needed rest. The longstanding plan was to journey to Scotland for this period. However, one day, while idly scrolling through Facebook, I chanced upon trailers for several musicals staged in London’s West End. At that instant, a sudden and spontaneous decision dawned upon me: rather than the Scottish escapade, I would reside in London and indulge in the splendour of various musical productions.
A close friend and I had perennially schemed to attend specific shows, yet in practicality, those plans usually remained ephemeral desires. This time around, economic constraints did not align favourably for my friend, leaving the excursion in a state of uncertainty.
Caught between the fervent desire to embark on this solo endeavour and a fear of doing so, I found myself at a crossroads. The daunting question loomed: am I sufficiently self-assured to venture into the theatre realm unaccompanied? Alas, uncertainty prevailed. Nevertheless, there was but one way to ascertain the truth.
I went ahead and bought the tickets.
London’s Theatrical Marvel: A Journey into Enchanting Performances and Spectacles
London stands as the stage for the finest theatre productions and musicals. In Portugal, I’ve witnessed several plays that left me awestruck—I simply adore theatre. Upon my relocation to London, it was inevitable that I delve into the acclaimed realm of British theatre. I found myself utterly astounded and taken aback by its all-encompassing brilliance: from the actors’ performances to the selection of music, the meticulously crafted sets, and the special effects.
As the curtains rise, we’re transported into a three-dimensional world, a magical and fantastical realm where we forget everything beyond those doors.
If you call London home or have a journey planned to this enchanting city, be sure to bookmark a visit to the West End theatre on your itinerary. It’s a performance that weaves its magic into the fabric of your memories, leaving an indelible imprint on the stage of your recollections.
Among the array of musicals currently gracing the stage, my chosen spectacles were “The Moulin Rouge” and “The Lion King”.
Moulin Rouge
I watched the movie and absolutely loved it. The story unfolds in Montmartre, a famous bohemian district in Paris, where a young composer, the innocent Christian, upon is arrival in the the City of Love, encounters two friends who completely alter his life: Toulouse-Lautrec, a renowned painter, and Santiago, the most exceptional tango dancer. They introduce him to the fantastic and enigmatic underworld of a Parisian nightclub – the Moulin Rouge.
In this lavish cabaret, he falls in love with Satine, the star of the venue, although she is promised to a Lord.
I adored the narrative, the music, and especially the Argentine tango, which communicates passion, heat and fervour in a remarkable
I’ve watched the film about 4 or 5 times. Can you imagine what it would be like to experience it live?
To get a glimpse of this wonderful, transcendent musical, follow the link to the official trailer.
The Lion King
I adore animated films. There’s a part of me that never outgrew that childlike wonder.
“The Lion King” is a Disney classic that needs no introduction. I believe it’s a story known worldwide, but for those who might not be familiar, here’s a brief reference.
This Disney musical narrates the adventures of Simba, a young lion, heir to his father Mufasa’s kingdom. Mufasa’s malevolent brother plans to steal the throne by luring father and son into an ambush. Although Simba manages to escape, tragically, Mufasa perishes. With the aid of his friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba re-emerges as an adult to reclaim his stolen kingdom from his uncle Scar.
To get a small taste of this magical, fantastical musical, follow the link to the official trailer.
.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_VPnwAsQDg
Anticipation and Anxiety: Venturing to Theatre Shows Alone
As tickets were secured, anticipation and excitement for the upcoming shows mounted, but so did the anxiety of attending alone.
This time, I wouldn’t have Cookie’s company; I’d be entirely on my own. An internal struggle had begun. For many, it might not be challenging, and perhaps there are those who prefer to attend such events alone. But for someone who grapples with depression and has fluctuating self-esteem, causing confidence to waver on many occasions, this isn’t an easy situation.
One Step at a Time: Overcoming Fear to Build Self-Assurance
However, my motto is one day at a time, step by step, and anything is achievable. The worst enemy to building self-esteem and self-assurance is fear. I believe that by confronting and conquering my fears, stepping out of my comfort zone, I’ll construct a stronger and more confident version of myself.
Unexpected Turns: A Surprising Twist to Solo Plans for ‘The Lion King
One afternoon, while sharing my vacation plans with a new friend, she also became interested in seeing ‘The Lion King’. Since I had already bought my ticket, she purchased hers, but we ended up seated in different areas. I felt more at ease knowing I would have company for the journey and during the musical’s intermission. Thus, it became a somewhat softer first solo experience.
This friend also suffers from depression and low self-esteem. Through our conversation, we both concluded that this experience would benefit us both. We wouldn’t have to face loneliness the entire time and we would have each other’s company during the intermission, providing a certain comfort. Furthermore, we would return home together since we are neighbours.
Navigating Unfamiliar Territory: An Unexpected Yet Strengthening Prelude
This turn of events left me more relieved, as going with my friend but being alone during the musical is a gentler experience than going entirely by myself.
Having company on the way to the play allows my friend and me to distract ourselves from the fact that we will be alone during the musical, and to support each other in building courage and self-confidence. During the intermission, we can exchange impressions with each other about the feelings we experienced during the first part of the musical, thereby strengthening our self-confidence for the following hour.
It prepares me for that path, giving me more strength and confidence, as I will have already experienced sitting for two and a half hours among strangers.
Finding Strength in Unity: A Tale of friendship and courage at the Theatre
And the night for the first experience came. There was no initial nervousness, as I knew I would be going with my friend.
I can say that it truly was as I expected.
On the way to the theatre, my friend and I were excited and joyful about seeing “The Lion King,” a musical we both had longed to see. Only when we arrived at the theatre entrance did my friend become a little more nervous and started stressing about sitting alone.
Unfortunately, my friend’s recovery from depression is at a lower level than mine. I began working on myself earlier than she did, so I end up being a bit stronger.
The fact that we support and help others who may be in the same situation as us is also a step forward in our own self-confidence.
As soon as I sat down, I found myself admiring the beauty of the theatre itself.
The Lyceum Theatre, located in the city of Westminster, is an old theatre from 1765, with its current structure dating back to 1834. The beauty of this place is unimaginable, causing me to get lost in its architecture and completely forget that I was sitting alone.
The musical began, and that’s when I entered a magical world, only coming back to reality at interval.
While marvelling at the enchanting fantasy that surrounded me, thoughts of my wonderful Cookie naturally crossed my mind. I missed the comfort of her nestled in my lap. It might not seem apparent, but the energy they transmit to us is soothing. Consequently, I began to imagine what her reaction would be if she were present. She’s a well-behaved and serene dog, sparking my curiosity about how she would respond to the myriad creatures around us—butterflies and birds gracefully soaring above. Even while rooted at home, she manages to paint a smile across my face
I got up, went to meet my friend, and indeed, she was a bit stressed. I calmed her, advised her to take deep breaths, and we talked about what we had just seen. By the time we returned to our seats, she was calmer, and I was much more confident.
Reunion of Triumph: The Power of Mutual Support
We met again at the end of the play, my friend was no longer wrapped in stress, but immersed in a calmer state. We discovered ourselves sporting smiles that radiated from our very soul, proud of ourselves for what we had achieved. It might seem a mere footstep to others, but it was a significant journey for us.
The currency of mutual support was truly held immeasurable value. My friend, who initially doubted she could take this stride, now joyfully proclaimed that although she still didn’t feel capable of going to the theatre entirely alone, she possessed ample confidence to venture forth in this manner.
As for myself, I felt fortified, standing on the precipice of the next expedition.
Stepping into Solitude: A Journey from Doubt to Confidence in the Theatre
And the long-awaited day arrived. I started the day calmly yet tinged with the excitement of going to see the musical Moulin Rouge.
The day went well, but after lunch, a nervous flutter in my stomach began, accompanied by a desire to just stay at home. The thought crossed my mind: why did I buy the ticket if what I really wanted was to be on my own sofa?
However, with the ticket already purchased, I had no other option but to push myself to go. As time passed, I reassured myself that this initial panic would fade. After all, the journey I had to make was no different from many I’d taken before. Ultimately, once at the theatre, I would be absorbed by the spectacle itself.
Despite my nervousness, I set out, as there was no turning back with the ticket in my wallet. During the journey, I chose to take deep breaths and focus solely on the journey itself.
Upon exiting the metro station, I felt a sense of relief when I saw the theatre just 5 or 6 steps away. There were others nearby who were also going to see the play, taking photos, and I did the same. Then, I took a deep breath and entered. I found my seat and sat down. This would be the most challenging moment of the night—sitting alone while everyone around me was accompanied and chatting with their friends and/ or partners, potentially making me feel anxious and insecure.
Surprisingly, that wasn’t the case. I noticed a girl sitting alone in front of me, so I wasn’t the only one, which gave me some comfort. As I observed the theatre itself, I forgot about the others. I found myself in a stunning building, the Piccadilly theatre is a reminiscent of the golden 1920s.
Suddenly, a delightful surprise unfolded: the last 15 minutes before the musical began, characters strolled across the stage and various other paths, capturing my complete attention.
I can say the most uncomfortable moment was the interval. I lacked the confidence to get up and leave the sit. That’s a step for another time.
But I left that musical much more confident and prouder of myself, with the certainty that I won’t have any issue going alone to watch a play in the future.
Discovering Solo Adventures: Embracing the Unexpected Joys of Theatre and Ticket Bargains
With this experience, I also learned that going to a play alone has its advantages. Typically, people attend with a friend or a group, and it sometimes results in unoccupied seats between different groups. These leftover tickets are harder to sell, prompting the box office to lower the price to avoid having empty seats. That’s how I got my tickets—almost half the regular price. A handy tip, isn’t it? 😊
Embracing the Dance of Challenges: An Overture to Self-Discovery and Triumph”
In Portugal, we have a saying:
“de grão em grão enche a galinha o papo“
“grain by grain, the hen`s crop is filled”.
Here in the UK, I’ve heard the expression:
” Baby steps, a gentle tune of progress”
Both verses dance to the same rhythm: slowly, patiently, we can mould ourselves into fortresses of self-assurance and confidence.
There’s no need to rush; we must be aware this journey is a winding river, it’s a gradual process with various levels. Sometimes, especially if we find ourselves in a state of depression, it may seem a depth fog, the path may seem obscured. But it’s not. I’ve learned that stepping out of my comfort zone, thrusting myself into the unknown, is a masterclass in self-discovery. The wisest lesson is that I can overcome them, emerging stronger and more confident, realizing I have many potentialities I was unaware of.
Fortified by Adversity: A Dance with the Unknown
Challenges become the crucible where I refine my mettle. It’s a daring waltz with discomfort, a dance with the shadows that teaches me resilience. In the face of adversity, I emerge not weakened but fortified, an unexpected alchemy of strength and self-assuredness. Unveiling latent potentialities, like hidden treasures awaiting discovery.
So, I’ve embraced the art of self-challenge, transforming each trial into a chapter of triumph. With every conquered peak, the symphony of pride crescendos, and the mantra
” I can do it”
echoes through the corridors of my being. What awaits on the horizon? The next challenge, a tantalizing enigma, beckoning me to dance with the unknown once more.”
I hope with all my heart that my experience encourages you to follow the path of strength and courage, to face your fears, and to build a strong and confident personality. Feel free to ask questions and share your experiences. We are all different, but together we can find the support and help we need to progress on our journeys.
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