Welcome to my first post under the new category “inspiration”. I was contemplating the idea of creating a column called motivation or advice but inspiration seemed like it really fit what I was going for. I don’t want to seem like I’m giving a pep talk or telling you how to live your life, I just want to spread inspiration through what I enjoy doing and share some things that I’ve learned.
My first Inspiration post is on the reasons why I love to sit alone at coffee shops. Being alone is somewhat looked down upon in this day and age. People wonder why you’re alone or if you’re being stood up by someone…at least that’s what I used to think. After living in NYC for a little, I’ve noticed more and more people dining and spending time alone. I decided to try it for myself. Once I got over the superficial idea of feeling like a loser, I found out I really love it! Here are a few perks of chilling at a coffee shop alone.
People Watching
People watching has got to be one of the best free activities out there. I could do this all day. There is so much to see when you’re mindlessly watching people go about their daily lives. I looooved doing this at coffee shops or bars while I was studying abroad in Paris. I learned so much about the Parisian culture just by observing other people.
Pick your activity
People watching aside, there are so many other things that can be done at a coffee shop. I usually bring my laptop to get some work done. I swear, it’s the ultimate blogging inspiration spot! The inspiration can come from what people are doing, wearing or saying. You just never know! If you get bored easily (like me) you can also bring books, magazines, your phone..or all three!
Stay as long as you want
Have nowhere to be? No problem. Order 5 cups of coffee and 3 pastries and lounge at the coffee shop all day. Bring enough books or a computer charger to last and you’re set until you begin to crash from all the cups of coffee.
One of my favorite things is finding new coffee shops in NYC. The top few photos were taken at Maman in Soho. The coffee shop has a very laid back, garden feel to it. They also have a wide open spot in the back that’s pretty quiet and perfect for studying or working.
The photos on the bottom are from Cafe Henrie in the Lower East Side. I went pretty early on a Sunday morning so there was almost no one in there. I can imagine it gets pretty loud but it was definitely quiet and perfect for working when I went. It would also be a great date spot because their food is so good!
If you have any suggestions for more Inspiration posts, please let me know! You can email me here 🙂
Austen says
I feel so adult because I’m coveting that coffee mug. Great post!
-Austen
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