There is a certain social stigma toward solitude and introverted personality traits; however, I often find myself looking forward to weekends without any plans to be social. Don’t get me wrong, I adore my friends and the adventures we get ourselves into, but my oh my is “me time” good for my soul.
My creativity flows freely. When I am alone in my house, I’m also alone in my head. I redecorate everything I can get my hands on. I start reading as many books as I can get my hands on, including this one. I doodle. I head to the kitchen and test-drive new and interesting recipes, like this one. I am free to do whatever my heart desires, and it’s a happy feeling.
I can slow down and recharge. In the solitude of my home, I don’t feel guilty about taking naps, long showers, and lighting every candle I own. I can come and go as I please, and in stark contrast to the hectic schedule of my work-week, I don’t have anyone to report to or any deadlines. It’s calming.
Reflect on life. It’s my time for soul-searching. Am I happy with where I am in life at this very moment? What do I want to achieve that I can begin right now? Have I made the best choices for myself? What do I need to work on? I am able to put my life into perspective. When I’m not happy with something, I can work out a plan for change. It’s difficult to take stock of these things when I’m constantly on the go and surrounded by others.
There is time for my guilty pleasures. (Read: The Bachelorette and my Alanis Morrisette playlist on Pandora.)
Serious focus improvement. At work, when it is most important for me to stay focused, I can’t. I’m easily distracted by the candy bar or the occasional adorable puppy that is prancing around the office. The second that my intern asks me a question, my mind darts in the opposite direction of the work I had just been doing. But being on my own is like a heavy-duty Adderall.
So take a day, or a weekend. Make no plans. Recharge. I promise you it’s worth it.
Tiny Tales 