Typically, the general understanding is that someone who is an extrovert does not need time alone, whereas the introvert does need time alone. Well, I happen to consider myself an extrovert about most things, and I always seem to be an extrovert on the Myers-Briggs Personality Instrument. (you can take this super interesting questionnaire here) However, I am a person who mentally, physically, and spiritually requires time alone.

In certain settings with those who I am comfortable with, I can be energized by being in a crowd, and usually feel rejuvenated after talking to people. But, most of the time in crowds I feel okay, but I would rather be alone. It's hard for many people to wrap their heads around this idea, and sometimes those close to me think that I'm shutting them out, when in fact I just need time to be alone. About every week or two weeks I need time alone to reflect, clear my mind, and refocus.

For me, spending time by myself is something of paramount importance. When I'm by myself I usually like to make myself dinner, listen to music, and take time in silence to reflect. While alone I am able to clear my head of any, or most woes, and feel at rest with myself. I also like to reflect on my week and think about things I could've done better, and work through complicated situations or ideas in my head. I allow myself to think imaginatively, and make a plan about things I want to do or need to do. If I feel especially stressed, then I like to do something mindless, like go running, or watch Youtube videos. Regardless of what I need to do in my alone time, I need time to be away from people, have my thoughts to myself, and think clearly.

Most importantly, being alone teaches you quite a bit about yourself. For instance, you can learn if you are the type of person who needs somebody constantly to be happy, or if you can live more vividly on your own. Personally, I could take a job in a foreign country, and live happily while making new friends. Of course I would miss my family and friends who give me encouragement and support, I'm not a psychopath, but the point is that I would be able to do it if I absolutely had to. You need to learn to enjoy your own company, and to understand yourself separately from any outside influences. These days it is easy to forget who you, you at the core of your soul, are outside of anybody else. You need to know and love yourself in your own context, without anything more.

So, in short taking time each week to reflect, clear your head, and be refreshed is something that we should all try. Being alone teaches independence, and teaches you that you can be happy without a constant crowd of people. So, don't be afraid to ask for personal space because it's like a mental and spiritual facial, it cleans out all the dirtiness so that you don't break out (or have a meltdown.)

Take time for yourself to unwind, relax, refocus, lose yourself, learn about yourself, and strengthen yourself for what there is to come in the future.

Best Wishes, Simone :)