Tips for making the most of your important time alone

Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, time alone is key to your personal well-being.

There is always a great debate about the differences and lifestyles of introverts and extroverts. Introverts generally prefer quiet environments, solitude and reflection. They are most comfortable in small, intimate settings and often need time alone to recharge. Extroverts prefer social interaction, excitement and stimulation, often if not constantly. But both need time alone for different reasons.

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In today's social media world, people always seem to be out with friends, doing amazing things. But that's an illusion, because most people still have their lives to live. And sometimes life can be incredibly busy with work, deadlines, family matters, and an endless stream of tasks. Time alone is a healthy way to recharge, de-stress, and re-center. It also gives you time to process and reflect, not to mention let your body heal sometimes. Time alone should not be confused with loneliness, which is mental or physical isolation that negatively affects mental and physical health, sleep, and sometimes perception and thinking.

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Understand the time alone

Sometimes you want to be alone to relax and unwind. When we have too much to do, we crave it, but when everything is going according to plan or well, we don't think about it. When restlessness, chronic stress, and fatigue become more frequent, the body and mind signal that they need a little break. The holidays are an example: sometimes even people who love this time of year find that things aren't as fun anymore, the body and mind are overwhelmed, and need a little break. When the brain doesn't get enough rest, it tends to process information differently and inefficiently. Time alone provides a break to allow all the moving parts to fall back into place and clearer thought patterns to emerge.

Understand that it is a positive thing and not a punishment

While the phrases YOLO (you only live once) and FOMO (fear of missing out) are fading from the vocabulary, the need and fear are still alive. Some people associate time alone with being left out, unpopular, or not included. Instead, it's a way to feel good about yourself, recharge, and approach things refreshed and with more fun. The more comfortable you are with yourself, the more comfortable you will be with others.

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Connect with what you love

Another great benefit of alone time is the opportunity to bond over things you love. While browsing social media shouldn't be at the top of the list, other things can increase feelings of happiness. Listening to music, even if it's the same song over and over, is a perfect solitary activity. Not having to share, explain, or hope they like it while listening to music can reduce anxiety and blood pressure. It can also improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory.

Reading is another way to escape from the daily grind, broaden your horizons, or simply relax. Long walks, favorite movies, paddleboarding, watching a show you particularly enjoy, and more are all ways to give your body a break and rejuvenate.