Hi, I'm Dr. Ellen Hendrickson, and you're listening to episode 19 of the savvy psychologist.

I'll help you meet life's challenges with evidence-based research, a sympathetic ear, and zero judgment.

We'll use the best of psychology to help you be happy, healthy, and most importantly,

yourself. Everyone needs a room of one's own some more often than

others. This week we'll discuss five common and not so common variations on the

state of seclusion.

And next week we'll cover six tips to help you feel better

when the only version of the social butterflies you have

is in your stomach.

Sometimes I just want to be alone. There are a thousand reasons to utter this phrase.

Time alone may mean basking in the piece of a silenced phone and a stack of books after a non-stop work week.

Or it may mean time to write, compose, code, tinker, or otherwise revel in creative solitude.

Or the request may be yelled by a sullen teenager through a slam door.

Or it may be your rationalization to avoid potential social awkwardness.

Times meant in solitude exists on a spectrum.

While some people can entertain themselves for days on end, others prefer constant

companionship. What's healthy and best for your life is ultimately up to you. But here are some

common variations on solitude. Solitude type number 1. Introversion.

Sandy is a graphic designer.

Her best ideas come when she's alone in her cozy office or working solo in a cafe with her

laptop and the comforting buzz of strangers.

She has a close circle of friends and loves to hang out one-on-one over dinner or a glass of

...