“Dalian mo na, baka mapost ako sa FB with inspirational quotes.” (“Hurry up, I might get featured on a Facebook post with inspirational quotes.)
Filipinos have a knack for finding humor in unexpected situations. This joke originated from a viral TikTok video featuring a man enjoying a solo meal at a popular fast-food restaurant. He sat there, immersed in his own world, with earphones on. While it might seem like a mundane scene, it quickly sparked curiosity and conversation among viewers. The caption posed a deceptively simple question: “What’s wrong with dining alone?”
To understand the buzz surrounding this video, one must delve into the depths of Filipino culture. The Philippines is known for its sociable spirit, where gatherings with loved ones are not just events; they are cherished traditions. Even the most introverted individuals often find themselves being gently drawn into the warmth of social interaction. Consequently, when someone in this culture expresses a preference for dining alone, it can be rather perplexing.
However, the response from Pinoy netizens was passionate and unequivocal, underscoring that dining solo in public should never be a subject of pity. It is not about loneliness; it is about choice.
One issue that arose from the viral TikTok video is the invasion of privacy. Taking photos or videos of strangers without their consent is not only intrusive but also a violation of their privacy. It is essential to respect people’s boundaries and their right to enjoy their solitary moments in peace.
Now, it is time to reconsider our perspective on solo dining through the lens of science. A study published in Physiology & Behavior in 2006 revealed that individuals dining alone tend to make healthier food choices. Surprisingly, when dining with friends, the average consumption increases by 18 percent, and even with the television on, it rises by 14 percent.
Furthermore, a separate study conducted in 2012 found that when dining with others, people often mirror their eating habits, which can lead to unwanted weight gain. Therefore, dining solo not only allows individuals to savor their meals in tranquility but also facilitates healthier eating habits.
On a side note, for those who have discovered the beauty of flying solo, it is a liberating experience. Dining alone means you are free from considering anyone else’s preferences; it’s all about you. You are in control, and that empowerment can be incredibly liberating.
But solo time is not just about meals; it extends to various aspects of life:
- Pursuing Passion: You can indulge in your interests, be it visiting an art gallery, attending a concert, or traveling to your dream destination without compromise.
- Connecting with Strangers: Without a group to stick with, you are more open to striking up conversations with new people, potentially forming lasting friendships.
- Self-Care: Even if you adore your friends, everyone needs a break from socializing. Solitude can offer much-needed mental rejuvenation.
- Personal Growth: Solitude gives you the space to understand yourself better, free from external influences.
- Building Confidence: If you are confident in your own company, you are practically unstoppable.
In essence, being alone can be a form of self-love and personal growth.
It’s crucial to differentiate between “alone” and “lonely.” Dining solo does not equate to loneliness. People who choose to dine alone do so because they enjoy their own company. So, let us shed our preconceived notions about solo diners and give them the respect they deserve.
If you are curious about solo dining and other solo adventures, here are some ideas you might consider:
- Savor your favorite Filipino dishes at your go-to restaurant.
- Enjoy a solo movie night, complete with local cinema snacks.
- Embark on a spontaneous trip to a nearby province to explore local culture.
- Treat yourself to a staycation in a cozy local hotel.
- Relax in a park, take in the surroundings, and watch your fellow Pinoys go about their day.
- Pamper yourself with a spa session that offers traditional Filipino treatments.
- Plan a weekend getaway to a nearby island or beach destination.
- Unleash your creativity by taking part in a local craft or art workshop.
- Go on a shopping spree in a bustling Filipino market.
Remember, the more time you spend with yourself, the more you will come to appreciate it.
Yet, as the buzz around the viral video illustrates, Filipino culture is not monolithic. It embraces a diverse range of perspectives, including those who find solace and contentment in solitary moments. The response from Pinoy netizens, emphasizing that dining solo should be a matter of choice rather than pity, reflects this diversity. So, let us shift our perspective and celebrate those who choose to dine alone. After all, it is not loneliness; it most probably is not just solely confidence but rather a comfort in itself.
