According to new research, sitting in a restaurant or movie theater all alone isn't nearly as depressing as you might think. In fact, researchers say you might just like it.

Set to be published this summer, a recent study found that, at first, people didn't expect to get much enjoyment out of going out on the town alone, but actually ended up enjoying it just as much as those who went with friends - some even more.

Study co-author Rebecca Ratner explains why most of us dread going out alone.

"The reason is we think we won't have any fun because we're worried about what other people might think. We end us staying at home instead of gong out to do stuff because we're afraid others will think we're losers."

Speaking from experience, going to a movie by yourself or going to a restaurant for a meal is, I think, very exhilarating. I love going to movies, especially in the afternoon, when everyone else is at work - no long lines, no having to sit next to someone you don't know.

I'm one of those who actually likes to go out and sit and watch people. During the Christmas shopping season, I can spend hours at the mall sipping on a pop and watching families scramble around looking for that perfect gift.

Often times, when I take an overnight motorcycle trip, rather than sit in my hotel room and eat fast food I'll instead dine alone at a restaurant. I've found some of the most interesting people to watch are elderly couples, or families with small kids. It's amazing what you'll see.

Really, when you think about it, in this day in age where people are marrying later in life, working longer hours, and as a result have less free time, hanging out at home is kind of pathetic. Don't you think?

So go out, enjoy yourself, and give a boost to the local economy. You might just like it.

More From KXRB