Wallflower Explorer: Series Introduction

As I mentioned in my first blog post, in my 20's I started to feel lost. I suspect this is a common feeling as we all leave either our home towns or possibly (as I did) leave University. When I left University I moved away from my friends to London with my boyfriend. 

At this point in our relationship we were both doing shift work which often meant I would have days alone whilst he was working. I quickly realised I didn't want to stay boxed up in our tiny flat (I mean flat is a bit generous it was more a cupboard with a bed in it!). So I started to explore London on my own. As I mentioned in my first post I would write about where I went and share photos. Through which I developed a love of photography.

Though I was slightly forced into spending time on my own I soon discovered the importance of spending time in my own company. For me this was confirmed when I travelled across the UK (starting from Edinburgh and ending in London) alone. I stopped in eight cities. I was so nervous before I went, but with my boyfriends support, I set off. 

Honestly, it was one of the best experiences in my life. Not only did I see so many amazing sights including Newcastle Castle, York Minister, Oxford Castle and Prison and Shakespeare's House (To name a few!) The sense of independence was thrilling. You may have heard that quote "you are not the main character in everyone else's story, you are the main character in your own." On that trip I felt like the main character in my own story, I was in complete control of where I went, what activity I did that day and where I ate. 

I think like many of us (myself included) life can often sweep us up without us really taking the time to figure out what makes us truly happy. For me spending time alone, especially if that is exploring somewhere new nourishes my soul. As it combines my passion for exploring but also being an introvert. Sometimes as much as it is wonderful to share experiences with someone else it is truly special to take the time to explore somewhere at your own pace. Even when you are in a relationship I think it is essential to spend time in your own company. To learn what you like separate from your relationship which I believe in turn makes your relationship stronger as you are two whole people coming together.

I empathise that being out on your own in public can feel almost exposing. If I'm being honest I still struggle with going out to eat on my own. This is why I have decided to create the series Wallflower Explorer. Wallflower linking back to me being an introvert but also with time going out on your own you feel like a wallflower. You soon realise that most people don't notice or honestly really care that you are alone. 

In this series I plan to share some of my favourite places and also sprinkle in tips on how to feel safer and more confident when exploring alone. 

If you have any suggestions for places for me to visit please let me know if the comments below. 

E x