Three Reasons to Spend Time Alone

In her book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, Susan Cainwrote “Don’t think of introversion as something that needs to be cured. Spend your free time the way you like, not the way you think you’re supposed to.” People who choose to cultivate their desire to spend time alone, rather than fight it, are able to do so because they have confidence and strong sense of self. Even if you are not a natural introvert, there are lots of good reasons to embrace your solitary side.

HERE ARE THREE OF THEM:

1. BEING ALONE HELPS YOU CONNECT WITH YOURSELF AND YOUR WORLD.

When attempting to fit in with a group, we often have to compromise our own wishes in order to please everyone else. When we are alone, however, we can do whatever our heart desires – including finding out just what that means. Mark off a day on your calendar during which to completely avoid social contact. If you are introverted enough, you likely do this from time to time already. Turn off the TV and see where your mind wanders. Read, paint, draw, write, or spend time in nature. Play music, build something, or plant a garden. Run. Cook. Knit. Meditate. You’ll be surprised at the depth you find in yourself – and as Aristotleonce said, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.”

2. SPENDING TIME ALONE BUILDS CONFIDENCE AND RESILIENCE.

When you spend time by yourself, you learn to rely on your own sense of approval rather than the preferences of those around you. This can help you build a sense of self-love and resist social pressure when you do make your way back to a group setting. It also strengthens your ability to stand on your own two feet. Leaning on others during times of stress is more than fine, but it’s not always a possibility. Build your capacity to cope as an individual. When disaster strikes, you will be more inclined to lean on yourself and more capable of doing so.

3. INTROVERSION DISCOURAGES IMPULSIVE TENDENCIES.

Many introverts strengthen their social skills by forcing themselves to spend time with other people. Similarly, someone who is naturally outgoing can benefit from spending time alone, especially when it comes to building the ability to suppress an impulsive nature. Introverts are more skilled than extroverts at exercising delayed gratification. They are more inclined to think matters through thoroughly instead of making a quick decision. This skill helps introverts to succeed financially, professionally, and even romantically. By spending time alone and strengthening your capacity for introversion, you can develop this ability as well.

“His retreat into himself is not a final renunciation of the world, but a search for quietude, where alone it is possible for him to make his contribution to the life of the community,” saidC.G. Jung in a beautiful description of the introverted mind. Indeed, many people are at their best when they are able spend time on their own to better connect with themselves and the universe. Try it, and see what happens.