NB: This may not be a word-for-word transcript.
5 Ways Solitude Can Make You Happier and More Successful
Humans are social creatures, so it’s important to connect with others regularly. Meaningful relationships bring joy to our lives and surrounding yourself with the right people encourages you to be a better person by improving your habits and learning new things. That being said, we’ve become so reliant on our digital devices as a society that it’s almost impossible to truly disconnect. But failing to make time for yourself away from all the noise of everyday life can leave you feeling lonelier, even in a room full of people, than you would if you were alone. In the same way that we need connection, we also need solitude. This may seem counterintuitive, but setting aside alone time can make you feel less lonely. It also builds the mental strength that enables you to reach your full potential. Here’s how solitude can help you lead to a happier and more successful life.
#1 Solitude Helps You Get to Know Yourself
When you’re a part of a group, you’re more inclined to do or think what the rest of the group is doing or thinking, which aren’t always the actions or decisions you’d make if you were on your own. Spending time alone enables you to make decisions free from the influence of others. You don’t have to worry about anyone else’s feelings or have to compromise on what you truly want. As a result, you develop a deeper sense of self-awareness that allows you to be more comfortable when you’re alone and more authentic when around others.
#2 Solitude Boosts Creativity and Productivity
Creative types often retreat into solitude for inspiration. The seclusion of an empty studio or mountain cabin helps them get those creative juices flowing. In fact, studies confirm that people are more likely to come up with their best ideas on their own. Research has also shown that people tend to perform better when they have privacy. When you remove interruptions and distractions, you are able to concentrate more effectively, which boosts your productivity.
#3 Solitude Improves Psychological Well-Being
There’s a certain stigma associated with solitude. It’s difficult for many people to go out to eat or to the movies by themselves because they feel like others are judging them. Though it may feel strange at first, becoming comfortable doing things alone is crucial to your mental well-being. Studies show that those who are intentional about their alone time tend to be happier, more satisfied with life, and have lower stress levels. They’re also less likely to have depression.
#4 Alone Time Could Improve Your Relationships
Healthy relationships require maintaining a certain level of independence. And spending time alone helps you appreciate the time you spend with others, rather than taking it for granted. When you’re alone, you’re also more likely to reflect on your relationships and become more compassionate toward those who aren’t in your immediate circle. Furthermore, spending time with yourself and learning more about your needs and desires can help you make better decisions about who you want to be around.
#5 Solitude Provides an Opportunity for Perspective
When you’re absorbed in the details of daily life, all you can see is what’s right in front of you. If you truly want to see the big picture, you have to take a step back and get a bird’s-eye view of what your life is all about, and solitude helps you to do just that. Alone time gives you the opportunity to reflect on your goals, dreams, and aspirations. It allows you to evaluate whether your life is aligned with your values or whether it’s time to make some changes.
The good news is, you don’t have to completely isolate yourself from everyone and everything for long periods to experience these benefits. Even 10 minutes of alone time each day is enough to help you reset from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Those who think they can’t afford to put that time aside are likely the ones that need it the most and will significantly benefit from it. You can spend your alone time meditating, journaling, walking in nature, or anything else that brings you peace.
Whatever you decide to do, be sure to disconnect completely and silence your electronic devices. Enjoy just being alone with your thoughts. If this is new for you, the silence and stillness can feel unsettling, but pushing through is an essential part of building mental strength and living a more fulfilling life.
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