Sometimes you just need to be alone to decompress from the craziness of the world. This doesn’t mean you’re anti-social – it’s about finding a balance. Think of alone time as an investment in yourself. When done right, it makes you a better friend, partner, and all-around human! Here’s how to get the most out of solitude so that you’re a little less fed up and a lot more prepared to deal with all the BS out there.
1. View alone time as a treat, not a punishment.
Shifting your mindset is key! Instead of “Ugh, another night home alone,” try “Finally! Time to do whatever I please.” Associating it with positive feelings makes solo time something you crave, not dread. After all, the best and most important relationship you’ll ever have is with yourself. You need some quality time together, Verywell Mind reminds us.
2. Create a cozy, distraction-free environment.
Make your space an inviting escape. Put on comfy clothes, light a candle, brew some tea and make your alone time feel like a luxurious ritual. The more your senses are soothed, the easier it is to relax into me-time.
3. Disconnect from technology for a set period of time.
Mindless scrolling eats away precious alone time! Set a timer (one hour, two hours, whatever feels doable), put your phone on silent, and resist the urge to check it. Being fully present in the moment is the goal. Of course, it may take a long time before you feel like you can truly achieve this, but you know what they say — practice makes perfect!
4. Practice mindfulness through meditation or simple sensory awareness.
Speaking of “practice makes perfect,” try to focus your attention to the present moment. Meditation apps are great, but don’t overcomplicate it! Simply noticing your breath, the sensations in your body, or the sounds around you pulls you out of the mental hamster wheel.
5. Engage in a creative activity just for the fun of it.
Draw, paint, write, play an instrument, dance… without any pressure to be “good” at it. This reintroduces the childlike joy of pure expression, and activates areas of your brain that often get neglected in daily life.
6. Move your body in whatever way feels good.
Yoga, dancing in your living room, taking a walk – it doesn’t matter! Movement gets you out of your head and works off excess energy, making it easier to relax more deeply after. Plus, feel-good endorphins are always a bonus!
7. Have a solo adventure – even a small one!
Going for a new hike, trying a new coffee shop, or wandering around a museum on your own terms is empowering. It reminds you that you’re perfectly good company for yourself, and builds confidence for potentially doing bigger solo adventures in the future.
8. Reflect on your goals, values, and what brings you genuine joy.
The hustle of daily life makes self-reflection hard. At the risk of referencing a severely out of date meme, “Ain’t nobody got time for that.” Luckily, alone time gives you the space to ask the big questions: Am I living in alignment with what truly matters to me? What changes, however small, would make my life more fulfilling?
9. Read something that expands your mind or feeds your soul.
Lose yourself in a thought-provoking book, inspiring article, or even just some fun, trashy fiction. Reading takes you to new places, exposes you to different perspectives, and can even boost empathy. Embrace the escape!
10. Treat yourself to a little pampering.
Take a luxurious bath, do a face mask, give yourself a massage — anything that feels indulgent. Nurturing your body reinforces the message that you deserve care and good things, even when no one’s there to witness it.
11. Learn a new skill that you’ve always been curious about.
The internet makes learning easier than ever these days, and that’s one of the best part of it. Language apps (I’m partial to Duolingo), online courses, or even simple YouTube tutorials open doors. The point isn’t to become an expert, but to spark curiosity and remind yourself that you’re capable of growth at any age.
12. Journal without any specific agenda.
Free-writing without worrying about grammar or making sense is cathartic. Vent frustrations, explore dreams, or simply jot down random observations. Getting thoughts out on paper brings clarity, and can even lead to unexpected insights.
13. Embrace the quiet and allow yourself to simply daydream.
In our overstimulated world, this feels radical! Watch clouds drift, stare out the window, just… be. Allowing your mind to wander sparks creativity, can help you problem-solve, and simply feels peaceful after the constant buzz of daily life.
14. Do something that nourishes your inner child.
Color in a coloring book, do a puzzle, build with Legos, whatever brings back the simple joy of childhood. Reconnecting with that playful part of yourself reignites wonder and reminds you not to take yourself too seriously.
15. Tackle a task you’ve been putting off.
Alone time can be productive too! Without distractions, finally organize that drawer, write the email you’re dreading, etc. That sense of accomplishment feels better than mindlessly binge-watching another show.
16. Practice deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.
Consciously shifting your physiological state calms your nervous system. These are tools you can take with you even when you’re not alone, helping you manage stress long-term.
17. Spend some time in nature, even if it’s just your backyard.
Being outdoors reduces stress, boosts mood, and adds a sense of perspective. Notice the sights, sounds, and textures around you. Nature reminds us we’re part of something bigger than our day-to-day worries.
18. Simply do absolutely nothing… and be completely guilt-free about it!
Resist the urge to always be productive or improving yourself. True rest sometimes means being completely unscheduled. Give yourself permission for a guilt-free afternoon nap or staring at the ceiling. It’s more rejuvenating than you might think!
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