Am I Weird For Doing This?

I was having an eventful conversation the other day about how much I enjoy eating by myself and going on lunch breaks by myself because sometimes I just need a break from people. The person I was talking to had a look of pity on their face and I couldn’t understand why. This individual stated that they found my behavior weird and a bit sad, but I find it to be normal. I guess I should say, normal for me.

I have (for the most part) always taken lunch breaks alone and most of the time it would be in my car. Sometimes I would take a nap, sometimes I would catch up on my favorite show and other times I would read a book on my lunch break. My goodness, I see my coworkers enough during the week, why on earth do I want to spend my lunch break looking at them some more? Whether my lunch break is 30 minutes or 1 hour, I need that time to become one with myself so I can recharge both mentally and emotionally.

Believe it or not, my solo breaks play a huge part in helping me to finish out the rest of my day in a peaceful state. I don’t and won’t take those moments for granted.  I’m all about fostering a positive work environment and getting along with my coworkers, but that doesn’t mean I have to be buddies with them or eat with them when it’s time for my lunch break. It’s called a break for a reason people! Sorry, not sorry.

When it comes to eating by myself at a restaurant, that doesn’t bother me either. I find it so cute and funny when someone comes up to my table asking me if I would like some company or if I would like to join them because they felt bad that I was eating by myself. I can see the look of sadness sprawl across their face while I am beaming back at them with a huge smile as I state that I’m okay and that I requested a table for one on purpose. I appreciate their concern, but I’m fine. I requested a table for one for a reason.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love hanging out with my friends and family, but I also enjoy taking lunch breaks by myself, being by myself and yes, going to a nice restaurant all dressed up and eating a nice meal by myself. Weird? Nah. Different? Possibly.

Regards,

🍴-Anita