The idea of being alone can be terrifying, especially for the typical extrovert. If we are use to staying busy, intentionally or not, being quiet can be a shock. Sometimes I wonder if we use filling our schedule to the brim to keep us from having a moment alone. Do you always want noise? Always want to be doing something?

For whatever reason we stay busy, we can miss out on an important part of life. Being along can be key to learning about ourselves, processing life events, and finding joy in the small things. Personally I enjoy being alone so that I can think and process. You may simply need the space from people. Or maybe being alone is how you recharge from a rough day or an emotional event.

On the flip side, to be in community is important too; we were not made to be alone. To be well is to have a balance between being alone and being together with people. My point is that often, especially in college, we fear the idea of having a quiet moment. There is an importance of balance.

So know yourself. When do you need a break? What helps you unwind? What calms you down when your mind is racing? What do you find joy in? My challenge to you is to schedule in thirty minutes to be alone, you can do whatever you want. It may feel weird, but just take a deep breath.