Right before the pandemic, I spent quite some time with myself; thinking about what I wanted next, what's working for me, what's not working and so on. It was very cleansing. So when the pandemic hit, it felt very normal to me to continue with that time. I still enjoyed connection and often spoke with family and friends one the phone. During one conversation with a frustrated friend, she said, "Maybe I should just be a recluse, like you." Or something to that effect. At the time, I didn't even really know what the word meant but I guessed it due to the context of the conversation and, although we've kissed and made up, back then I was slightly offended. I felt very misunderstood. I believe we live in a world that emphasizes codependency and vilifies solitude and individual confidence. It's understandable though, because we have collectively been through many taxing changes that we didn't know we'd make it through and being together does alleviate the fear and concentration of that uncertainty. However, that comment got me thinking about the most consistent benefits of carving out alone time. There are many but here are the ones that resonate with me the most:
1. Self-Reflection:
Being alone provides an opportunity for introspection and self-reflection, allowing you to better understand yourself, your thoughts, and your emotions.
2. Rejuvenation:
Alone time gives you a chance to recharge and rejuvenate. It allows you to relax, unwind, and replenish your mental and emotional energy.
3. Improved Creativity:
Solitude fosters creativity by providing a space for independent thinking, brainstorming ideas, and exploring new perspectives.
4. Personal Growth:
Alone time allows for personal growth and self-development. It offers the opportunity to set goals, evaluate your progress, and work on self-improvement.
5. Stress Reduction:
Taking breaks from social interactions can reduce stress levels. Alone time provides a peaceful environment where you can engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation or pursuing hobbies.
6. Enhanced Problem-Solving:
Solitude can facilitate effective problem-solving. It allows you to analyze challenges without external influences and develop innovative solutions.
7. Independence and Self-Reliance:
Spending time alone fosters independence and self-reliance. It helps you build confidence in making decisions and being comfortable with your own company.
Remember that while alone time can be beneficial, it’s important to strike a healthy balance with social connections and interactions that are also crucial for overall well-being.
Listen to my personal experience with this in Episode 14 of the "I'm Okay" Podcast below!