How to spend time alone.

Since we are in lockdown at the moment, many of us will find ourselves alone and isolated from family members and friends I thought this post was worth writing to give you some ideas of how to spend your time alone.

1. Give yourself a routine.

A routine at the moment is so important, in my opinion. Without one, I can often find myself feeling very demotivated with a lack of focus on anything. You don't have to schedule every minute of your day, but giving yourself a small to-do list will give you some focus and an aim for each day.

2. Do something you enjoy.

Whether it's music, reading, magazines, sports or baking, get on board with your hobbies. Many of us may be feeling down as we are away from all of our loved ones, but doing something you enjoy, makes you feel happy and gives you the dopamine boost that you need and would usually get from seeing friends.

3. Get outside.

Being stuck inside all day every day is not good for our mental health. Try and get outside at least once a day for a walk, run, or even just to sit outside and read a book. I really recommend listening to a podcast whilst getting your daily fresh air as it can make you feel less alone and it is a great source of entertainment.

4. Detox from social media.

In today's society, social media is such an important part of our lifestyles however it can make us feel overwhelmed and lonely. Detoxicating from social media allows us to feel so refreshed and allows us to focus on becoming the best version of ourselves.

5. Challenge yourself.

Challenging yourself to do something new can give you a huge sense of achievement. You don't have to be good at your new challenge but give it a go, you never know, you might pick up a new hobby. Some ideas include waking up earlier in the mornings, learning a new language, trying a new sport or writing a journal.

6. Write someone a letter.

Being isolated can be challenging, but receiving a letter in the post will make someone's week brighten up. It's a great opportunity to get creative and have some fun. I did this back in March last year and I really enjoyed it and my friends and family loved it too.

7. Go to an online event or webinar.

At the moment 'Eventbrite' are offering thousands of free opportunities in hundreds of different industry's and departments. Ted talks also offer many amazing talks. It's a great opportunity to learn something new from home, and if it's free, what's stopping you!

8. Tidy up

So simple, but so effective. Tidying your workspace, bedroom or kitchen gives me major satisfaction. There's something about a tidy space that helps me be productive and focused on the work on my to-do list. 'A tidy space is a tidy mind' is such a great saying, and it's so true! Tidying up physically, naturally cleanses our minds of our busy thoughts and exciting ideas. I love listening to some of my favourite music whilst doing this task and having a little boogie as I go.

9. Create a new playlist

We all love music, but sometimes I get bored of listening to my same 5 playlists on repeat. This year I'm aiming to listen to more music outside of my comfort zone and hopefully with them I will be able to make more playlists and find some new favourites. (look out for Tom's tune of the week, every Friday on thomasjlblog Instagram)

10. Write a letter to your future self.

Back in December, I wrote a letter to 26-year-old Tom. I asked questions about my life and society and I can not wait to open it in 10 years time! I do recommend this, you can get all your thoughts down, knowing the only person that's going to see it is you (even if it is 10 years on!)

11. Research into something you know nothing about.

There is so much to learn in such an expanding and knowledgable world. I love researching things that interest me, you can learn so much and often end up surprising yourself.

12. Write a story.

Although they aren't very good, writing a story is such a fun way to get creative. The Most Dangerous Writing App (squibler.io) is such a fun website. It gives you writing prompts and a time limit. You have to keep writing the whole time otherwise it gets deleted. It gets you exhilarated and excited and if you like what you've written you can save it and continue writing the rest of the story.

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thomasjlblog

24th February 2021