“We are social beings, and we are meant to connect with each other both physically and emotionally, so of course it’s very challenging for many, especially extroverts, to be alone,” psychologist Margaret Paul, Ph.D., previously told mbg. “Yet it’s vitally important for all of us to be able to be alone with ourselves and still feel peaceful and full within.” As clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly, Ph.D., previously told mbg, “It’s often wonderful to create a list filled with a blend of to-do tasks and self-care time. This approach makes solo days feel like a nourishing balance of ‘must-do’s’ and ‘want-do-to-do’s.’” And, if you can never think of things to do alone or in your downtime, consider taking a pause to consider why that is. What keeps you feeling disconnected from your sense of pleasure? How can you allow yourself to more fully lean into your leisure time so it’s something you truly look forward to? With her warm, playful approach to coaching and facilitation, Kelly creates refreshingly candid spaces for processing and healing challenges around dating, sexuality, identity, body image, and relationships. She’s particularly enthusiastic about helping softhearted women get re-energized around the dating experience and find joy in the process of connecting with others. She believes relationships should be easy—and that, with room for self-reflection and the right toolkit, they can be. You can stay in the loop about her latest programs, gatherings, and other projects through her newsletter: kellygonsalves.com/newsletter
