6 Ways to Embrace Alone Time

We are naturally social beings. Society encourages our evolution and pushes us not to be alone. Social ability ensures survival, and it also makes us feel good. So, it's no wonder that for some of us, the thought of being alone is terrifying. But as poet David Whyte once said, "Sometimes it takes darkness and the sweet confinement of your aloneness to learn that anything or anyone that does not bring you alive is too small for you."

Your aversion to solitude could be a result of societal stigma or even a tumultuous childhood—perhaps you experienced narcissistic parenting. Or maybe it's because you often conflate loneliness with solitude. Loneliness is a negative state marked by isolation, while solitude is the state of being alone without feeling lonely. Regardless of the reason, having time alone can be incredibly beneficial.

During this time, many of us have had to adapt to being alone in our homes. Initially, loneliness can seem terrifying and isolating, but solitude should not be feared. Many discoveries lie in wait when you take the time to be alone. Here are six ways you can enjoy and benefit from solitude.

1. Self-Reflect

Am I holding onto something that does not serve me? Am I living intentionally or in alignment with what matters most to me in life? These are just some of the questions that solitude can help you answer. Time alone allows for self-reflection and self-healing. In solitude, you can turn inward, assess your needs and thoughts, and find solutions to pressing problems. Solitude helps you achieve a degree of mental clarity that you might not have been aware you needed.

2. Find Joy

How often have you had to choose between turning in early or pulling an all-nighter on the weekend? One way to make the most of alone time is to find joy. We’re often bogged down by all the things we have to do, pushing aside what we want to do. Finding joy can involve taking some time to meditate on your thoughts and emotions or doing something you genuinely enjoy. In the process of exploration and discovery, be grateful for the solitude. You might also consider starting a happiness journal where you occasionally write down the things that bring you joy.

3. Nurture Your Hobbies

This is the perfect time to pick up that hobby you never seem to find time for—like watercoloring or practicing the piano. Having or taking time to be alone allows you to explore or re-explore those activities you were once interested in but didn’t have the time to pursue. Nurturing your hobbies not only increases your skill levels but also engages your creativity, which in turn aids your brain’s development.

4. Take Time for Self-Care

What is your ultimate go-to self-care practice? Have you sorted out your winter wardrobe yet? Self-care comes in many forms. For some, it’s a physical practice like soaking in a hot bath, painting your nails, or doing your hair. For others, it means disconnecting from social media, practicing yoga, or cleaning. It’s important to take time for self-care. Engaging in whatever form of self-care you need will not only give you something to do but will also instill within you a sense of calm.

5. Learn Something New

Is there a new language you’ve been wanting to learn forever, or perhaps a recipe you’ve been eager to try but never had the time for? Solitude is a great opportunity to learn something new. Whether it’s picking up a new language or mastering a new skill, productively engaging your mind for the sake of curiosity is a wonderful way to spend time alone. Learning something new will not only boost your confidence in your abilities but also help create a buffer against stress. Recent research found that engaging in learning activities helped workers create a buffer from detrimental effects, such as negative emotions, unethical behavior, and burnout.

6. Play and Dance

As you get older, does it seem like you’re slowly losing your childhood sense of wonder and excitement over things? Do you miss engaging in activity for the sake of activity? When was the last time you did something just for the sake of doing it? It’s probably been a while, hasn’t it? Play grounds you in the present moment, while the past and future—and all of their worries—dissolve. There are many spiritual, emotional, and mental benefits to play, with the most significant being stress reduction. As an adult, play may seem like a waste of time, but it’s essential to retain your sense of wonder. Get curious about even the simplest things—that is the essence of childhood.

Conclusion: The Value of Solitude

Solitude is not just a moment in time; it’s a state you can enter to find answers about yourself and the world around you. Whether you’re engaging in self-reflection, nurturing your hobbies, or learning something new, there are many ways to embrace solitude and enrich your life. So, next time you find yourself alone, don’t fear it—embrace it.