Embracing Alone Time

During the COVID pandemic many of us had to spend time alone, isolated away from people and routines, maybe for the first time ever. Such an abrupt shift in daily interactions affected people differently, but this time in isolation gave us all an opportunity to learn more about how we feel about, and manage alone time. 

Learning to embrace time alone can help you discover more about yourself. You can learn more about what you like and make decisions without any outside influences. Time alone can spark creativity and inspire you to begin a creative project that you have thinking about. Being alone can even help build mental strength. A Forbes article, 7 Science-Backed Reasons You Should Spend More Time Alone, states that, “studies show the ability to tolerate alone time has been linked to increased happiness, better life satisfaction, and improved stress management. People who enjoy alone time experience less depression.”

Alone vs. Lonely

By definition, to be alone is simply to be by oneself without anyone else near. It is a state of being physically by yourself. Whereas, to be lonely is an emotional state where you feel alone or isolated regardless of who you are with. To be alone does not need to be lonely.

Try This

• Schedule a self-care date with yourself. Choose an activity that you enjoy, like going to a museum, and spend a couple hours enjoying that time.
• Try to spend a few hours at home alone without any distractions - turn off the tv, put your phone away, and simply enjoy the quiet solitude. 
• Go for a long walk in nature by yourself. Listen to the sounds and admire the views without distractions.

References:

• 10 Things That Happen When You Start to Enjoy Being Alone
  
• The Odd Power of Loneliness Can Change the Way You Think
• 7 Science-Backed Reasons You Should Spend More Time Alone