Widows & Widowers Support Group

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Traveling Alone

Kwoker88
Kwoker88
I recently came back from a business trip in Chicago and felt proud of myself that I made the most of traveling alone. I ate at the hotel restaurant by myself for the first time in my life and did not feel weird about it. I really had to push myself to keep going though. It was tough seeing couples walking around together while I walked alone. There were moments when all I wanted to do is just stay in my hotel room and not go anywhere, but I kept telling myself that my husband would want me to get out there and explore the city - even if I just went down the block, at least I was out there. So the last night of my trip, I went down to the Walgreens a block away from my hotel and picked out some souvenir magnets for my family and friends.
lovie4ever
lovie4ever
It can be a little scary to do things by ourselves, especially if we're not used to it, so you did real good!! I've traveled alone before but always to family, I've never had to stay in a Hotel by myself, I admire you for being so brave.
Hugs,
Christine
deleted_user
deleted_user
You should feel VERY PROUD of yourself for doing these things alone as that is such a big step. Each one of those gets easier and we actually feel like we are living again......even if it is for that moment. Your husband IS VERY PROUD of you!!! and I wish you continue to venture out and find some reasons to smile again.....hugs
ohsolost
ohsolost
I am soooo proud of you!!! In Chicago, yet! Next thing you know, you'll be shopping in NYC, solo. Hurray for you! Feel the fear and do it anyway!

Hugs,

Terry
missmyhero
missmyhero
It's all so one step at a time. This was a big step or many big steps for you. I am so glad that you did it..even though it was hard..I'm proud of you...I know how hard these steps are when we push ourselves out of our comfort zone...
hugs..
-Diana
deleted_user
deleted_user
Glad you managed that experience. What I find hard is especially when traveling for pleasure, not business, you have nobody to share your experiences with. When you see something beautiful, you want someone to be there to experience it too.
wing2003
wing2003
Travelling alone is empowering! I am proud of you. Ten months ago I was pertrified to drive alone at night or come into the empty house at night. In Juse I made the trip with my DS family to Vegas. I flew across the country by myself to stay in a hotel room alone. And I came home from that trip feeling a new sense of confidence.

I must admit is was a high moment followed by some lows; but that's all part of the journey. Good job sweetie!
Hugs,
Vicki
deleted_user
deleted_user
Wonderful! The first time I went out to eat by myself I felt really weird, but I took a book so folks wouldn't hink I was staring at them, and enjoyed my evening!
Still haven't made it to a movie alone, but maybe soon.
NewRoadsForMe
NewRoadsForMe
I can so identify with your fear of traveling or going out alone, especially early in grief. That said, I think even little outings that take great courage are to be commended.

I remember the first time I drove alone outside of town. I was only going about 100 miles in a very reliable vehicle, but it felt like I was i a Piper Cub going out over the Atlantic Ocean. I was so fearful and felt SO alone, as this drive was the one we made every so often to our week-end retreat, so the sadness was compounded. But I made it and congratulated myself. Your trip to Walgreens was a great accomplishment. It always lifts my spirits to get in the truck and go anywhere at all. Congratulations!! Great success!!
heartsick1
heartsick1
Outstanding, this is a big step. I live in a suburb of Chicago and work in the Sears ( Willis) Tower, so I am downtown everyday. Chicago is a pretty easy city to do solo. People are friendly and the tourist areas are pretty safe. It is always exciting when we over come our fears and step outside our comfort zone and succeed.
pathoflife
pathoflife
You took a step into your new future that is one of the most difficult. I applaud you for toughing it out and not letting that sick feeling in the pit of your stomach get the best of you when you noticed the couples milling around.

So much of the adjustment to being without our spouses is plowing through the uncomfortable situations that make us want to run and hide. Been there, done that. Believe it or not, you will become accustomed to doing things alone. It does get better in spite of what it feels like now. Blessings to you and sending a victorious 'hurray' your way for your great attitude. TJ