Maintaining our alone time

It is fair to say that over the past year, social interactions have drastically reduced. Many of us have become more used to spending time at home with those we live with and with ourselves. For a long time, meeting friends was only possible on zoom or at a distance. 

However, as the world begins to open back up, many people are trying to make up for lost time. It only takes a quick scroll through social media to see friends reuniting and beer gardens full. The ease of restrictions means the pandemic is under control, which of course is a good thing. 

Being able to hug friends and family is something we will never take for granted again. However, as the world opens up, it is important to prioritise our mental wellbeing, which for many people involves alone time. Spending time alone is something that has and always will be important, but we need to be careful to not forget this as we head back to frequent outings and social events.

Spending time alone can look very different for everyone

It is important to remember that everyone is different and everyone knows themselves better than anyone else. However, it is fair to say that the majority of people benefit from at least some time out from socialising. Alone time can be crucial for self-development. This isn’t to say people dislike socialising, in fact, it is usually the opposite. However extensive socialising after a long period of limited social interactions can be draining.

Alone time has many advantages, some of which are even backed by science. For example, it has been proven that spending time alone can help to spark your creativity and even increase productivity. Not only this, but it may be beneficial for your mental health. It has been found that people who enjoy alone time experience less depression.

As mentioned, spending time alone can look very different for everyone. While some people find themselves most at ease alone on a long walk, others can’t imagine anything worse. I would strongly recommend trying and make some alone time for yourself every day. 

Many of us have picked up some hobbies throughout the past year

This may be difficult, particularly if you live with friends or family, but I think it is really important to do this if you can. Spending just a few minutes a day to do something that you enjoy by yourself can really do wonders for you. If you have more time to spare, why not treat yourself to a date, getting lunch or having a picnic does not always need to involve a romantic partner or a heap of friends.

Another tip would be to carry on with your hobbies post-pandemic. Many of us have picked up some hobbies throughout the past year. Why not make an effort to keep up with these as we go back to, dare I say it, normal life. 

And finally, I would recommend learning to say no. Socialising can be draining, so if you feel as though you need some time to yourself or you just aren’t feeling it, you should not feel as though you need to say yes to each and every social event you are invited to.