It’s 2019 (almost 2020, whoa). Ladies are starting businesses, running Fortune-500 companies, and hello…running for public office. We shouldn’t be afraid of attending events alone. Going out with friends is great, and I’m all for a girl gang. But there’s something amazing about going out by yourself, maybe taking your current read or a pair of earphones (AirPods) and enjoying the time you have alone. It can be scary, but trust me, it’s worth it. If you’re on the edge about going to an event that you really want to go to, then this post is for you. It’s exactly what I did, and here I am writing about it.

So, I did it. I went to a live podcast show alone. Once I got there (I took an Uber), I was still a nervous wreck, but I am so glad I went. Hours before the event, I was terrified. I almost convinced myself not to go. But I did go. And I’m thankful that I pushed myself off the couch and made it to the event. Here’s a tip if you’re considering going to an event alone—bring a book. I pulled mine out (Game of Thrones), and after I ordered food and wine, I started reading. I don’t know these people! Who cares what they think? Even if I did know people there, I would still be the socially anxious introvert that I am, too afraid to talk to people, and worried what the people who I do know might think. But I didn’t know anyone there, and I was perfectly safe and comfortable at my little table with my current read and content until the show started.

What show did I go to, alas? I went to the Bad on Paper podcast—as I showcased on my Instagram story (follow @oliviagracescherzer). And I LOVED it. Grace Atwood and Becca Freeman are the funniest and they talk about books for pretty much most of the show. I haven’t heard a podcast, YouTube channel, blog, or anything (or anyone) talk about books as much as these ladies can. If you love reading anything and everything, go give this podcast a listen.

Long story short, it’s not bad or embarrassing to go to things alone. I’ve been to the theater alone countless times. As long as you’re safe, the feeling of being alone can sometimes be perceived as weird, but trust me—you’ll end up feeling content and comfortable in no time.