Ctrl Shift Alone
This pandemic may have caused increased time alone time, possibly a little longer than expected. When you want to feel comfortable being alone, one of the most trying situations for many of us is learning how to be alone. Your automatic negative thoughts may start to kick in and your mind may interpret spending time alone as, “Nobody wants to be with me,” “I must be a loser,” or “I feel unsafe when I’m alone.” Yet it’s wise for us to get comfortable with solitude, quiet, and aloneness. We can find peace and time for our solitary pursuits when we’re by ourselves. There are plenty of reasons to get comfortable with being alone. If you’re struggling to cope with being by yourself, try incorporating these strategies:
1. Acknowledge that alone time is different. No one else is present for you to watch or listen to. You have no one to talk to in person. Being alone is in a class all by itself.
2. It’s okay to be alone. Simply tell yourself that everyone’s alone from time to time and there’s really nothing unusual about it. Recognizing and accepting solitude as part of the human condition will help you adjust to the experience.
3. Consider being alone as a time to focus on yourself. Learn to cherish your alone time. It belongs only to you and you can think or do whatever you like during those times.
‣ While you’re alone, ask yourself what you hope to achieve within the next six months or year and make exciting plans to move forward toward your dreams.
‣ Another great use for time alone is to take advantage of the time to engage in activities that bring you joy. Perhaps you would like to pursue a new hobby or art. You’ll reap happiness, serenity and contentment from your time alone.
‣ Whatever you decide, even if you just want to take a nap in your alone time, you’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to face the world when you take time just for you. You can change your thinking about spending time by yourself.
One key to a creating a balanced life is learning to take advantage of time you have alone to do as you wish. It will help for when you reconnect with others.
Are you feeling alone and not sure how to embrace this season, let’s connect.
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With Balance & Wellness,
Shayla Peterson, LCSW, LISW-CP