One of the reasons that I decided to become a minimalist was because of how my life changed in my initial "trial run" of living with less. But one of the harder things for me to accomplish, even while living with less, was finding alone time. Sure, I was doing all the things I loved to do. But living with a younger sibling, several textbooks, unwritten essays, and two parents doesn't leave time for a lot of solitude. Even when I was away from my family, I was always doing something.
Not once during the day did I sit down to do absolutely nothing.
A huge reason I decided that minimalism would help me, though, is because living mindfully had, at first, allowed me some more time. But that time quickly filled with a list of things that desperately "needed" doing. I've found a few ways that I can create time to be alone.
Simply yours,
Sarah
Not once during the day did I sit down to do absolutely nothing.
A huge reason I decided that minimalism would help me, though, is because living mindfully had, at first, allowed me some more time. But that time quickly filled with a list of things that desperately "needed" doing. I've found a few ways that I can create time to be alone.
- Wake up earlier or go to bed later. I am a personal fan of getting up and then laying in bed for half an hour, brain dumping or simply relaxing in the comfort of my bed. I've tried going to bed later to get the best and most sleep possible, but I end up working in the hours I should be doing nothing. Not very helpful. But hey- if going to bed a little while later works for you, then go for it! Just make sure you get enough sleep either way.
- Read. This is one of my daily goals, of course. Reading allows your mind to be taken places that you may never physically go, leaves you in solitude of the mind, and blocks out all other distractions- time, family, looming schoolwork.
- Exercise. Whether it's going for a walk, running, or doing some Pilates, expending energy allows your mind to focus on the amazing abilities your body has instead of all the work it has to do. Plus, if you go outside, chances are you'll be away from the work (don't bring anything with you!) and the people that you'd normally live with. If your idea of solitude does include others (I know a few people like this), then ask a single family member to come with you and just listen and allow your mind to relax with them.
- Kill time. I know it isn't easy, but take time out of the equation. Pick a time of day when you know you don't have anything for quite a while, and then go. For example, I like to run and walk for my solitude. I usually get bored, frustrated, or tired after about an hour. I pick a time where I don't have anything for two to three hours, and then I go for as long as I want to. Can't find that time? You're probably doing too much.
Simply yours,
Sarah