The Art of Being Alone
Being Alone. Something extroverts fear, yet music to the ears of introverts. No matter your personality, the feeling of loneliness can sometimes be overwhelming. Especially in a world where social media creates a constant pressure to be living your best life, surrounded by friends and loved ones. Today I’m going to be talking to you about the vital benefits of spending simply 10 minutes a day on your own. No phone, no people, nothing. Just you and yourself.
Mental Benefits
Being alone for 10 minutes can trigger a deactivation process of our high-arousal state which can range from feelings of extreme stress to extreme happiness. Solitude in this sense can help regulate our moods to ensure we become more balanced and in turn aid with reducing extreme negative feelings.
Remember! When you are on your own, no one is watching and no one is judging. Don’t be afraid to break out some dance moves in the kitchen or sing at the top of your lungs. Being alone gives you an opportunity to partake in new things such as starting a new hobby.
Great for Relationships
Spending time alone can also benefit your friendships and relationships. Spending some time alone from your friends can allow you to have a reboot. For some people, spending most of their time with other people can be draining for their social battery. Having some time to yourself to recharge and relax can make the time you do spend with friends more fun.
In terms of relationships, time apart from each other be it during the day or the evening can lead to deeper conversations when you see them again. Another bonus of spending time apart is that it can lead to each of you picking up new interests and hobbies which in turn will better the both of you! Say goodbye to silence at the dinner table and hello to some exciting new conversations about what you’ve been up to on your own.
Increase your Productivity
Being alone can also benefit your productivity! Studies have shown that it takes around 23 minutes to regain focus after a distraction meaning if you are on your own, you are a whole lot less likely to be distracted whilst working.
Being alone can also help you process emotions or thoughts that might be on your mind which can get in the way of tasks that you want to get done.
ACTION PLAN:
Starting today, try and find 10 minutes in your day where you can be completely alone without any distractions.
NOTE: Try and avoid having your phone near you as this can be a trigger for all different types of emotions and will steer you away from the benefits of being alone. Try reading a book, listening to some music or just simply sitting down and letting your brain have a moment to breathe!