Some people love being by themselves; they
have no trouble feeling comfortable with it and truly enjoy their own company.
However, there are a great many people who have a terrible fear of being by
themselves and seek the company of others at all times. I feel, that there are
many advantages to being comfortable with your own company and that it is a
‘skill’ that all of us should learn.
At some point in our lives we are likely to
find that we’re living solo and it’s a boost to know that you can be in that
situation and not fall apart. Also, I tend to think that business entrepreneurs
should treat their position as one of ‘flying solo’. So, what are the
advantages of being able to enjoy life alone? Here are 10
benefits to start with:
Recharge your batteries
Being with other people uses a fair amount
of energy, both emotional and physical. We have to put a significant amount of
effort into keeping friends and family happy and that effort uses up fuel. Time
out alone lets you recharge your batteries.
Time to think
When people and activity constantly
surround you, your mind is being bombarded by distractions. It’s impossible at
times to ”think straight” as they say. It is also very difficult to reflect on
your own life and make new plans and decisions. You need some time alone to do
this.
Discover your feelings
When we’re in company, we automatically
tend to focus on catering for the other people’s emotions, unless of course
we’re total narcissists who only think about our own needs. This also applies
when you’re living with a partner and you focus on keeping them happy to the
detriment of your own feelings. Time alone, especially when you’re in a
relationship, allows you to get back in touch with the reality of what you’re
feeling, untouched by consideration for others.
Please yourself
Do you like going bowling? Perhaps not, but
your friends or partner do – so you go! In other words, you compromise. It’s
the only way to have a relationship. But, when you’re on your own, you can do
exactly what you want! And, pleasing yourself doesn’t make you selfish!
Increase productivity
Do you have a special project you’d like to
start, but constant company is getting in the way? Yes, there’s nothing like
time alone for increasing productivity!
Enjoy relationships more
What is it they say? “Absence makes the
heart grow fonder” and there’s little doubt that when you’ve been in your
solitary ‘cave’ for a while, you appreciate the company of your friends much
more.
Increase your independence
When being alone is a challenge, mastering
it is a great feeling and when you realise that you can be on your own without
the world stopping you feel stronger and more independent.
Focus on your happiness
While you are in your own company – only
your happiness matters!
Don’t apologise
Similarly, there’s nobody to apologise to.
Stayed out a bit late? Well, who is going to complain? Not you!
Act alone
You will learn how to make decisions and
take action without asking others if it’s OK for you to do it. You will learn
to trust your own instincts!
And, there you have it – 10 great reasons
to love being alone!