#solitudechallenge

While social media and the online world is a great tool that our generation is lucky enough to have, sometimes it gets to be a lot. This is why I participated in the #solitudechallenge. The #solitudechallenge is all about taking a half hour off from everything. I sat alone on my bed, turned off my laptop and phone, and shut my eyes. I relaxed almost to the point of falling asleep, but not quite. I thought about how important it is to sometimes disconnect from the world. I reflected on my week, the conversations and interactions I had with people, and the interactions I had with myself. I realized that I am more harsh on myself than anyone else. I thought about how I sometimes overwork myself and get angry at myself when I can't get everything done. I made a promise to myself to focus on what is really important and to sometimes disconnect myself from everything. While this challenge may be to meditate and not think about anything, I took a different route. I wanted to reflect and think about my week and think about how I can improve my mental health going forward.

This whole situation reminded me of why it's important to not constantly be connected. For that half hour, I didn't have to respond to an email, I didn't have to answer a text from a friend who I don't really have the energy to talk to, and I didn't have to update my Instagram story. It was relaxing and reflective.

So, I challenge you. Take a half hour for yourself and see how you feel.