For many of us, alone is a negative state of being. Society doesn’t help us with this either; being alone often carries a social stigma, implying isolation, being on the outside. This perceived sense of aloneness seems to imply that being by one’s self is not volitional, that it’s not a choice we make but rather, an imposed state where a person is not socially engaged in the way that is somehow expected.

Social media gives us the impression—the illusion—that we are connected even if it’s only interacting with somebody’s words. Clicking “like” is the abbreviated form of saying, “I hear you and I agree”. Comments serve as conversation as if we had really interacted with that person in real time.

Unfortunately, the constant noise of everyday is stealing our time alone. it is robbing us of the precious quiet we all need to think, reflect, rest and invest in ourselves. When we take the time to be alone, we can clear our mind of all the noise and allow our inner voice to become clear. Without the competing priorities of everyone around us, we can get real with ourselves and true passions.

Recent research recognizes the potential benefits of alone time — provided it’s an intentional choice prompted by positive emotions. Time alone  allows us to connect to nature or get a better sense of self, can be constructive.

Enjoy the silence.