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We usually portray leaders as being busy. And they are. But ever asked yourself that question: how can they find time to think bigger and remain creative when they are surrounded by people? I’ve discovered what the secret is when they are by themselves.

There are five key benefits to managing and enjoying solitude: it can improve performance, creativity, relaxation, relationships, and mental well-being.

Performance

Ever wonder why world leaders, athletes, musicians, and writers always appear to be by themselves when they are working on their craft? According to research, it might take up to 10,000 hours to master a skill. Distancing oneself from outside influences will be the greatest strategy for achieving it.

As we get older, our interests tend to become more focused since, when we’re by ourselves, we like doing what we enjoy.

Look at Bill Gates, the brilliant mind behind Microsoft. His accomplishment was a result of him working on a piece of software in exchange for getting free computer time on the University of Washington’s computer.

The late Kobe Bryant was known for spending a couple hours in the gym to score a certain number of shots before a game. He will not leave until he has accomplished his goal.

Creativity

For so many people, turning their lives around requires more than just hitting rock bottom. Some have a significant global impact. For instance, we can mention a few notable leaders like Malcom X, Hitler, Nelson Mandela, Johnny Deep, Robert Downey Jr. just to name a few.

They all share one thing in common. They all became well-known after serving time in prison.

As a self-professed coffee enthusiast, I find Joseph (Joey) Stazzone’s journey to Cafe Kreyol – a direct-trade coffee importer, to be an excellent illustration of how unexpected solitude can transform you from a drug addict to the co-founder and CEO of a company that produces one of the best products Haiti can make.

Joey will be the first to tell you about the horrible decisions he made when he was younger, which led him in and out of jail for drug use, sales, and smuggling. Joey had lots of time to himself while incarcerated to reflect on his spiritual values. He started reading the Bible and following God’s will.

A year after his release, he made the decision to travel to Haiti with a missionary church in order to aid those in need. Reading the Bible to the kids and painting a wall was about all he did. He felt he had not done much to help. That made him feel unfulfilled.

It was at that moment that the Coffee Hunter Project was born. So, as soon as his church mission ended, he headed back to Haiti to pursue his own mission.

Meanwhile, according to the Coffee Hunter project, CafeKreyol has contributed to the creation of over 3,000 jobs in Haiti alone.

Relaxation

It’s difficult to say that you don’t experience stress at some point given the likelihood of entering a recession shortly. to the point where you want to go sit down in a bar and drink till you forget whatever the problem may be.

Well, it sounds great, but sadly not only will my budget not permit it, forgetfulness is only a temporary solution. It won’t do any good.

According to studies, taking a break and isolating oneself can significantly boost your ability to recover. It gives you the capability to think of the best course of action thanks to it.

Relationship

There is no such thing as the perfect partnership. No matter what you read online or what celebrities you follow, remember that you are only seeing what they want you to see. It is merely an illusion. So, whether you’re single or in a relationship, learn when to distance yourself from people you think are unworthy of your time or when to stop having pointless arguments.

The best way to avoid it all is to take a step back. Leave the location if possible and spend a few minutes alone with your thoughts.

When The Wife and I are unable to reach a consensus on a matter at some point, we usually take a brief break from discussing the matter. I’ll go one way while she goes the other. At least in my case, these brief seconds will lead to the notion: Is it even worthwhile?

We can always find common ground more quickly after a small break. Accept that no one wins in an ongoing argument, especially if it involves your significant other.

Related: How We Handle Our Finance As A Couple.

Mental Well-being

I purposely saved this for last since, without preserving your wellbeing, none of the other factors we’ve discussed so far will matter. You must withdraw in order to come to terms with who you are and any barrier that, in your judgment, is keeping you back.

I’m a people person, as those who know me are aware. I enjoy conversing, making jokes, listening to people, and occasionally joining others for a drink. All of this, however, would not be feasible if I hadn’t allocated daily alone time.

When I’m home, I’ll grab my book, head to the balcony, and lose myself in it either in the early morning while drinking coffee or just before dusk. And, when at work, go for a walk; if an office is empty, lock yourself inside. Don’t undervalue your car. If you commute to work by car, there isn’t a greater place to be by yourself without being disturbed.

Make managed solitude a habit, and you’ll see an increase in productivity.

Do you set time alone? What other benefits would you add?

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