The Positive Side of Isolation: 7 Ways to Manage Your Alone Time Wisely

Although spending time in isolation is sometimes stigmatized as making an individual “lonely” or “a loner”, there are many benefits to spending some quality time alone. Oftentimes time spent in solitude provides the best moments to think and relax. However, as people we do still need to be at least a little bit social, so social needs should still be recognized and tend to during times of extended self isolation. Here is the positive side to isolation and 7 ways to manage your alone time wisely. 

Alone Time Isn’t Always Lonely 

The first thing that you should do before spending time in isolation is to recognize that alone time isn’t a;ways lonely. Sometimes this stigma created by society can discourage people from spending time in solitude that they could benefit from. Becoming free of this potentially toxic mentality is especially important if you are about to go through, or are currently going through, an alcohol or drug detox treatment.  

The Benefits of Isolation 

There are many benefits to periods of self isolation. These include but are not limited to a better quality of self reflection, improved relaxation, and an increased ability to focus. These benefits are extremely helpful if you are trying to reduce stress, focus on an important project, or are going through a period where you want to think about things on your own more objectively. 

Some Ideas for Activities in Isolation 

Although spending time alone has many benefits, these benefits are best brought out when you have some activities or goals that you wish to accomplish during this time of self isolation. These could include things like: 

1. Going for Hikes 
2. Enjoying Your Favorite Movies
3. Enjoying a Nice Meal 
4. Taking this opportunity to get fit and exercise
5. Taking up a new hobby or revisiting an old one
6. Meditating or practicing yoga 
7. Practicing Mindful Journaling  or writing 

Although this list is a great start, you can fill your alone time with anything that you want. The main goal is to limit idle time, enjoy yourself, and relax. 

The Importance of a Daily Routine 

Having a daily routine is crucial for those that are new to a sober living home even during times of self isolation. This is because boredom can be a huge addiction trigger that could potentially cause a relapse in many recovering addicts. Therefore, creating a daily can prevent a lot of pain and hardship. The ideal daily routine should include elements of a healthy lifestyle, enjoyable activities, and hobbies that include short and long term goals. 

Conclusion 

It is important to remember that time spent alone doesn’t always have to be lonely, and that there are many benefits to time spent in isolation. These benefits include things like better self reflexion, improved relaxation, and a better ability to focus. There are many things that you can do to fill your time, but it is always suggested that you create and maintain a daily routine during this time. An ideal daily routine includes elements of a healthy lifestyle, enjoyable activities, and outlets for creating both short term and long term goals.