There is a certain peace that comes with choosing to stay in. As a senior in college, I find myself gravitating more toward the comfort of my own space instead of the constant pull of going out. I used to feel a little pressure to say yes every time friends wanted to grab food or stay out late. Now, I value those nights here and there, but more often than not, nothing sounds better than crawling into bed and watching Netflix or getting lost in a rabbit hole of YouTube videos.

It is not that I dislike socializing now. I still enjoy getting dressed up and spending time with friends, especially when there is an occasion to celebrate. The difference now is that I do not feel the same urgency to fill every night with plans. I know that if I turn down an invitation, it is not the end of the world. The people who matter understand, and the world outside my room will still be there tomorrow.

There is something underrated about the rituals of a night in. I take a shower, get all cozy in my bed and let myself relax. College can feel like an endless cycle of assignments, emails and group projects, so I like to take these little moments for myself. I think many of us get caught up in the idea that we are missing out if we are not doing things at all times. For me, the real “fear of missing out” is not giving myself permission to slow down before this chapter of my life comes to a close.

Part of it might be that I am a senior. After three years of trying to do it all, I now realize that I am happiest when I give myself space to breathe. A cozy night in feels like a reward for all the work I have put into school, internships and everything else that comes with college life. It may not look as exciting as a night out, but it feels just as important.

So yes, you will still see me at Wibs from time to time, but chances are you will find me curled up in bed, watching Dexter, perfectly content with the quiet.

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