Being totally the year 2020 has really highlighted the benefits of solitude. As an introvert I obviously value my alone time, but with the racial conditions of our Country and quarantine timing I am really finding the value now more than ever. For most of us, being alone with our thoughts and feelings is uncomfortable. It becomes so uncomfortable that we would rather surround ourselves with other people than to have to face it. I recently realized how extreme this was when I read an article that said when left alone in a room to think quietly, 67% of men and 25% of women chose to give themselves an electric shock rather than be alone with their thoughts.Electric shock vs being alone!!! Is being alone that bad?For most of us it truly is, and that is likely why suicide rates have also been higher this season. Even though being alone with our thoughts research actually highlights that there are TONS of benefits to solitude. Today I will share the top three benefits that I have recognized.

1.   Improved Productivity

Can I just say I have been more productive in this season than I have ever been. Now I realize that was because things were getting crazy on the news and social media and instead of engaging and skyrocketing my anxiety I decided to turn it off. This allowed me to focus on my real thoughts and more importantly I realized new and creative ideas. Here is the kicker though, I wasn’t just feeling the ideas I was able to produce them.

2.   Improved Creativity

Like I mentioned before my creativity has been amazing in this season. You would be surprised when you turn off all the outside noise and tune into your desires and body there is a lot of see and learn. Also when you are by yourself your brain can really run free and far and new and creative ideas will come from what seems like out of nowhere. There is literally no better time than now to generate new ideas.

3.   Reduced Stress

Let’s be real this is indeed a very stressful time. So what better way to process and handle stress than solitude. Truthfully while we need community we also need time alone to rest and recharge. When we are alone, we can relax completely and be ourselves, and this can be very soothing and refreshing. When things are going crazy getting a chance to be still with your thoughts allows you to prioritize the peace you deserve and desire.When you are alone, you are better able to get in touch with your thoughts and emotions. The more you understand yourself and connect to what matters most to you, the more in control of your life you will be. Getting started with solitude isn’t always easy nor fun, but if you slowly incorporate it into your life it doesn’t feel nearly as overwhelming. So I challenge you to consider how you can try solitude even if only for 5 minutes today.