Many people fear being alone, worried about running into problems or looking embarrassed. But don’t stress — there are simple ways to overcome this fear.

Identify the Root Cause

First, you need to understand why you’re uncomfortable being alone. For a lot of us, we’re used to doing things with others because that’s what society often encourages. There’s also the fear of judgment — what will people think if they see you dining alone at a restaurant or watching a movie by yourself? Figuring out what’s driving your discomfort is the first step toward overcoming it.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Once you’ve pinpointed (准确指出) the root cause, it’s time to challenge those negative thoughts. For example, if you catch yourself worrying about what others think when you eat alone, you can argue against that by telling yourself, “Who cares what they think? I’m enjoying my own company and that’s awesome.” or “I’m hungry and I deserve to eat.” Reinforcing these thoughts in your own head can make a world of difference.

Start Small

Another helpful trick is to gradually expose yourself to solo activities. Start small — maybe grab a coffee at a café and sit with a book. Keep the activities low-pressure like reading in a park or going for a walk. Remind yourself that you’re doing something for your own enjoyment and growth.

Getting comfortable with solo activities is all about changing your point of view and giving yourself the freedom to enjoy your own company. So next time you feel that fear coming, remember: it’s okay to be alone!

1.1. How do many people feel when they think about doing things alone?

A Take it easy.

B Feel out of place.

C Feel very excited.

D Be in low spirits.

解析：选B。B细节理解题。文章开头的“Many people fear being alone, worried about running into problems or looking awkward.”明确指出，人们担心独处时会看起来尴尬。故选B。

2.2. What is one reason why people feel uncomfortable being alone?

A Society encourages being with others.

B They fear missing social fun.

C They think alone means lonely.

D Solo activities are expensive.

解析：选A。A细节理解题。根据第二段的“For a lot of us, we’re used to doing things with others because that’s what society often encourages”。可知，首先我们得弄明白为什么独自待着会不舒服。对很多人来说，这归结于社会环境的影响：我们习惯和别人一起做事，因为这是社会通常会鼓励的做法。故选A。

3.3. How can you deal with negative thoughts about being alone?

A Avoid thinking about them.

B Always ask for advice.

C Watch movies to relax yourself.

D Use positive self-talk to challenge them.

解析：选D。D细节理解题。在“Challenge Negative Thoughts”部分中的“Once you’ve pinpointed the root cause, it’s time to challenge those negative thoughts.”可知，文章建议用积极的内对话反对负面想法。故选D。

4.4. What is a good way to start enjoying solo activities?

A Try complex tasks first.

B Begin with small, relaxing things.

C Go to busy places.

D Invite others to join.

解析：选B。B细节理解题。根据“Start Small”部分中的“Start small — maybe grab a coffee at a café and sit with a book. Keep the activities low-pressure like reading in a park or going for a walk.”可知，文章推荐从低压力的小事入手，如喝咖啡读书。故选B。

5.5. What is key to becoming comfortable with being alone?

A Changing your mind.

B Practicing daily.

C Buying new hobbies.

D Traveling far away.

解析：选A。A细节理解题。文章结尾“Getting comfortable with solo activities is all about changing your point of view”强调，适应独处的关键是改变观点。故选A。