In episode 122, “Don’t Fear Alone Time”, we discuss practical tips on how to get comfortable practicing solitude. Training yourself and others to focus on independent growth tactics will help you become more mentally tough. We continue our book study mini series over Amy Morin’s 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do. Learn how to take back your power, embrace change, face your fears, and train your brain for happiness and success.
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The Negatives to Avoiding Alone Time
Why do we avoid being alone? There are many reasons people don’t enjoy being alone. Introverts are just fine with it, but societal norms and culture can give off the vibe that alone time means you’re lonely. This is absolutely not the case. There is power in community, but there is a difference when you’re avoiding alone time. Here are some downsides when we do not seek solitude:
- Disrupts creativity
- Can’t fully rest or be restored
- Distracts you from obligations
- Can’t work through feelings
- Discomfort deters you
When we don’t take the time to get alone with our thoughts or even create space for ourselves, we’re missing out on opportunities for growth and to become mentally stronger. If you find your mind racing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep, This podcast episode is for you!
How to Find Solitude
Don’t fear alone time. If Jesus consistently practiced solitude, why wouldn’t we take note of this and practice it as well? Remember that busy isn’t progress and solitude isn’t loneliness. When we can understand these truths, we can unleash that power of this alone time. Here are some of the benefits of having intentional solitude:
- Brings restoration
- Increases productivity
- Helps brain development
- Boosts creativity
If you’re having a hard time starting out, just remember to take baby steps. Practicing tolerating the silence and build the skill minute by minute. It takes time to learn a new skill. Here are some helpful tactics:
- Pay attention to your feelings
- Keep a journal (here are our favorite ones)
- Consistently reflect
- Set goals
- Go for a walk without your device
- Turn off the TV when you’re not watching it
- Keep the radio off in the car
- Schedule a date with yourself
- Practicing meditation & mindfulness
- Don’t focus on constantly having to produce something
- Avoid multitasking
We go in depth on how this can look for you and your schedule, and give you practical, actionable ways you can start implementing solitude practice. Tune into the episode by scrolling up and pressing play, or subscribe to the Witty & Gritty podcast.
More Tips
Remember that you can set yourself up for success by having realistic expectations. Spend some time with yourself and listen to your thoughts and dreams. Journaling will help you sort through your emotions, so take a few minutes each day to write, pray, and listen to the Holy Spirit guide you. Click here to see our favorite journals.
We hope you enjoyed “Don’t Fear Alone Time”, and that you have practical, actionable steps you can take. Be sure to check out this entire 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do mini series (13 Things mini series) about a simple & proven way to become more mentally tough. You can do this! We’re here to help. Click the affiliate image below to get your copy of Amy Morin’s book.
Links From the Show
- Witty & Gritty Patreon
- Book: 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do (affiliate)
- 21 Kicks Journals
- Randy Wade prayer & journal method (episode 37)
- Rich’s calendar goals method (episode 61)
- Switch On Your Brain Mini Series (episodes 55-62)
- Lindsay Paris & screen time (episode 109)
- Pierre Cannings, solitude & God (episode 110)
- Headspace IG (also on Netflix)
