Why Alone Time is THE BEST!

Where do you fall on the introvert / extrovert spectrum?

There are people who need to be around other people as much as possible. They find their energy this way. For me, it’s the opposite. When it’s finally quiet, I come alive. My mind is clear and focused. Distractions fade away. I can work and feel IN THE FLOW again.

Love is stronger than productivity, and I love my husband, friends, and family. But in order to love them, I’ve found, I need to give myself the gift of alone time. It actually makes me better for them.

If my alone time gets cut into, I feel resentment and irritation. I’m too distracted, and feel like I’m at the whim of someone else’s agenda.

I’m not crazy and I’m not the only one. I’m fascinated with all the new studies about Introverts. My own brand is not one of shyness – I’m very social and enjoy being around people. But I do need to recharge. A LOT.

I also have a bit of a spongey empath thing gonna on. I need to keep a force field up or I absorb other people’s energy. It may sound woo-woo, but imagine if you spend a day with Friend A who’s super down and moping, versus spending time with Friend B, who’s light and fluffy. That stuff affects me!

I love the book Quiet, the Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain. She looks at historical and current introverts, and society’s bias toward extroverts. Check it out if you’re curious…

So how do I find my alone time?

1. 1. I work from home. This gives me a quiet workplace and time to complete my projects undisturbed. I love it and wouldn’t have it any other way!

1. 1. By setting firm boundaries. Bene Brown’s studies on vulnerability show that boundary-setters are actually more whole-hearted.

1. 1. Taking breaks. At a party I may dip out for a bit to walk or think on my own. After having a little breather, I can return refreshed and ready to go.