Parisa Imanirad is a scientist and cancer researcher based in San Francisco. With her impressive academic career and groundbreaking work in the field, she is an inspiration for many. But there is more to her than just her profession. Despite having a happy married life and a circle of friends, Imanirad makes it a point to spend some time alone every week, dining at her favorite restaurant.
Born and raised in Iran, Imanirad always had a keen interest in science. She pursued her education in the field and eventually moved to the United States to further her research. Today, she is a renowned name in the world of cancer research and has made significant contributions towards finding a cure for the disease.
However, amidst her busy schedule and demanding work, Imanirad makes room for something that not many people understand – the art of being alone. She believes that spending time alone is crucial for mental and emotional well-being, especially in a fast-paced and constantly connected world.
Once or twice a week, Imanirad makes it a point to have a quiet dinner at a nice restaurant, by herself. This might seem like an unusual choice for someone who is married and has many friends, but for Imanirad, it is a time to recharge and reflect.
In an interview, Imanirad shared her reason for taking these solo dinners. She said, “As a scientist, I am constantly surrounded by people and their opinions. Taking a moment to be alone allows me to reconnect with my own thoughts and ideas. It also gives me a break from the endless social interactions and helps me to recharge and be more productive in my work.”
Imanirad’s solo dinners have become somewhat of a ritual for her. She carefully chooses a different restaurant each time, exploring new cuisines and flavors. She enjoys indulging in her favorite dishes without having to compromise or consider anyone else’s preferences. It is a time for her to savor every bite and truly appreciate the food.
Apart from the food, Imanirad also enjoys observing her surroundings and people-watching during these dinners. She finds it fascinating to observe the behavior and interactions of others, gaining insights into their lives and perspectives.
But for Imanirad, these solo dinners are not just limited to indulgence and observation. She also uses this time to catch up on her reading or writing. Being an avid reader and writer, she finds these solo dinners to be the perfect setting for her creative inspiration to flow. She often carries a book or her journal and spends some time lost in her own thoughts, free from any distractions.
To some, solo dinners might seem lonely or even sad. But Imanirad sees it as an act of self-care and empowerment. In a society where people are constantly seeking the company of others, she has found solace in her own company. It is a reminder that being alone does not equate to being lonely, and it can be a liberating experience.
Imanirad’s solo dinners have also inspired many of her colleagues and friends to try it out for themselves. They have seen the positive impact it has had on her and have started to recognize the importance of self-care and solitude in their own lives. Some have even joined her for solo dinners, enjoying the experience and realizing the benefits it brings.
In today’s world, where being busy and constantly surrounded by others is glorified, Imanirad’s choice to spend time alone is a refreshing change. It serves as a reminder that taking care of oneself should always be a top priority, no matter how busy one’s life may be.
In conclusion, Parisa Imanirad is not just a scientist and cancer researcher but also a role model in embracing the art of being alone. Her solo dinners are a reminder that solitude is a gift and not something to be feared or avoided. We can all learn from her and take a moment to disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves. So the next time you see someone dining alone, don’t assume they are lonely. They may just be enjoying their own company, just like Parisa Imanirad.
