The first departure board

I had checked the route so often that I could recite the station names, but the departure board still made me hesitate. Nobody else seemed to be studying it for as long. I wanted the freedom of travelling alone without the responsibility of choosing the wrong platform. When the announcement matched my ticket, I felt almost offended by how ordinary the answer was. I followed the signs towards the stairs, keeping enough time in reserve to turn back if I had misunderstood. I did not ring home for confirmation.

In your own words, explain the writer's thoughts and feelings before setting off alone.