So you’re in college now and loving the high-energy environment and constant exposure to new people and things. You might have noticed that your time, whether it's a couple of hours or all day, no longer contains as much alone time as it might have at home. Where did all your “me time” go? Having a roommate, a constant workload, and a lack of private space on campus can make those occasions when you do need some alone time hard to find. So, where can someone go to find it? Here are five ways you can get space to clear your head, call home, or just relax from your hectic schedule.
1. Plan it out with your roommate
The first step to finding some “me time” in college is establishing a good relationship with your college roommate so that you can each have the dorm room to yourselves once in a while, like when you need to call home or when you just want time to meditate or dance like a maniac to your unconventional musical tastes. Ask your roommate what their schedule is so you know when they’ll be in class or at a club activity. You could also talk to them ahead of time if you know you’ll be calling your mom or a friend from home at a particular time. Just make sure to be courteous and extend the same favor to them when they ask for it. With mutual respect, they’ll likely be more willing to let you have your own time.
2. Take a walk
Sometimes spending time alone in your dorm can’t be arranged, whether it’s because your roommate isn’t agreeable or your schedules just don’t click. But never underestimate the power of a calming walk around your college campus. At small schools, it’s usually easy to find a local park or quiet tree-lined path, but urban areas work too. Walking around can give you a better idea of what you can do around campus while also giving you time to sift through your thoughts and get your healthy steps in. (Pro tip: walk with a buddy or tell someone where you’re going if you go alone so that your pleasant walk around campus doesn’t turn into a horror story.)
Related: Five Smart Personal Safety Tips for High School and College Students
3. Find a secluded spot on campus
Perhaps on your walk around campus, you found a little bench or picnic area and no one was really around. If no one was sitting there when you found it, you might find there's nobody there next time you visit that spot on campus either. Bring some headphones and a book or notebook and that spot can turn into your sanctuary, whether people pass by often or not. Places of worship are also usually very welcoming to people who want to use the space to pray or meditate when services aren’t going on—and many colleges have a church right on campus. Even if spiritual things aren’t your forte, the quiet environment can be a nice place to be alone for a few moments.
4. Find a local café
Have you ever been to a coffeehouse and seen those people on their laptops and thought they must be writing a novel or working on an important research project? Well, bring your laptop and that person can be you—except you can spend time working on homework. Playing games or checking social media aren’t bad options either if you're just looking to relax. People won’t know it’s just you getting your “me time,” and the atmosphere is a little more energized if that's your thing over quiet spaces.
Related: 10 of the Best Colleges and Universities for Coffee Lovers
Finding alone time in college is essential for maintaining your mental health amid a busy academic schedule. By prioritizing your needs, communicating with your roommate, and exploring simple ways to carve out time for yourself, you can recharge and thrive in your academic and personal life. Alone time is a vital part of ensuring you show up as your best self for classes, socializing, and extracurriculars. Embrace these strategies and make space for yourself in the exciting whirlwind of college life.
We have a lot more tips on taking care of yourself and your mind on campus. Utilize these 8 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health in College for a more balanced life.
