6 Tips for Finding More Time for Yourself

I'm pretty much a self-proclaimed expert on finding solitude.

As an introvert, not only is it natural for me, but it's also very comfortable. Being alone, I mean. So who better to ask about finding time alone than someone who is a pro.

Whether you crave solitude or feel intimidated by it, there's no doubt being alone has benefits.

Everyone needs time and space to themselves, even extroverts. Without solitude, we can become agitated, overwhelmed, and experience the fallout. Shorter tempers, overstimulation, and loss of interest in people and activities you love is a sign you need some solitude

Sometimes you crave time alone but can't seem to get any. There are phases of life when it's harder to get some solitude.

Here are 6 tips for finding time alone when you crave it most.

TIP 1: Take the long way

Whenever you can, take the longest route to your destination.

Even running errands can provide a moment of solitude when you take a longer route to get there. If you live rurally, take the backroads or surface streets to get some more time alone to and from your destination.

Just be sure you have a full tank of gas.

TIP 2: Get a sitter for some alone time

Having kids and finding some solitude is a massive challenge.

There are plenty of reasons to hire help with the kids. Most of all, some time to yourself. Enroll your toddler in pre-school, hire the neighborhood teen, or swap babysitting with other parents and carve out some time to be alone. Getting the kids out of the house can create space for peace and quiet

Resist the urge to use your time attending to chores or other activities. Instead, indulge in the sounds of silence

You deserve it.

TIP 3: Take a mental health day

You don't have to be sick to take a day for yourself.

In fact, taking one of these days may be just the thing that keeps you healthy.

Technically, tending to your mental health is similar to watching your physical health. Take a day for yourself when your family is in school or has a regular schedule to enjoy some guilt-free solitude.

Trust me, it works.

TIP 4: Try solitude in a crowd

If you love the energy of crowds of people, consider attending an event or activity solo.

Being alone in a crowd offers the best of everything, including the excitement of an activity plus the benefits of hanging out with yourself. Try going to a concert in the park, a sporting event, or a gathering and see how much you enjoy yourself.

And a final side benefit?

People watching.

TIP 5: Take baby steps…with options

Try an activity on your own with a limited time frame while allowing for the possibility of more.

Try camping for one night with the option to stay longer if you're having fun. Take an introductory course or free class once with the option to sign up if it feels like a good fit. Go for a day trip with the goal of booking a private vacation if you discover you enjoy your own company.

You get the drift.

TIP 6: Use the buddy system

If you are trying to adapt to solitude but need to know there's life out there, get a buddy.

I know, I know. Having a "buddy" negates the whole solitude thing. So give me a sec and just hear me out.

Make a plan to check in with a friend each day to fill your social tank while you enjoy some solitude. Try to limit connections to the minimum amount you need to still feel connected to others while benefitting from time to yourself.

Finding time alone isn't that hard when you understand and experience the benefits. Whether you crave it or find yourself resisting the idea, it's essential to restore peak mental health and get to know yourself better.

Lean into solitude and discover the joy it brings.

The final word

If you're finding it difficult to find time alone, don't worry, you're not alone (pun intended).

These six tips help you get some peace and quiet when you need it most. Whether you take the long way to your destination or use the buddy system to check in with a friend each day, there are plenty of ways to find solitude when you need it.

And remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health- so make sure to take a day for yourself every once in a while!

Solitude can be a great thing. Join my email list with 1,000's of others who love some "alone time", and for more freelancing insights.