Solo Time

Purpose

Solo Time gives participants a period of structured solitude in a natural setting for personal reflection, journaling, or simply being present. In the context of team development programmes, it provides essential counterbalance to group activities by allowing individuals to process experiences, clarify personal insights, and return to the group with renewed presence. It is one of the most powerful yet underused tools in experiential education.

At a glance

• Group size: Any (individual activity within a group programme)
• Duration: 60 minutes (can range from 20 minutes to several hours)
• Difficulty: Beginner (logistics), Intermediate (emotional depth)
• Facilitation style: Setup and containment; no intervention during solo time
• Setting: Outdoors; nature with designated solo spots spread apart

How to run

1. Introduction (10 min): Explain the purpose. Provide optional reflection prompts: What am I learning? What am I avoiding? What do I want to bring back to the group? Distribute journals if desired.
2. Assign spots (5 min): Guide each person to a designated spot within earshot but out of sight of others. Spots should be safe, comfortable, and sheltered.
3. Solo period (35 min): No phones, no conversation. Participants sit, walk within their area, journal, or simply observe.
4. Gentle recall (2 min): Use a bell, whistle, or drum to signal the end.
5. Return and optional sharing (8 min): Gather the group. Offer voluntary sharing — never force it. Some prefer to keep solo insights private.

Materials needed

• Journals and pens (optional)
• Reflection prompt cards (optional)
• Sit mats or cushions for comfort
• Signal instrument (bell, whistle)
• Rain gear if weather is uncertain

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Too short: Under 20 minutes, people never settle. The restlessness IS the point — but give enough time to get past it.
• Forcing sharing: The deepest insights are often private. Offer, don't demand.
• Phone access: Ask participants to leave phones behind. The temptation to scroll destroys the exercise.
• Unsafe spots: Every solo spot should be scouted for hazards. No cliffs, water edges, or exposed locations.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Ensure solo spots are accessible for all mobility levels — include flat, sheltered options.
• Some participants may feel anxious alone. Offer a buddy-pair version where two sit within visual range but do not talk.
• Provide warm, dry seating. Discomfort distracts from reflection.

Variations

• Guided Solo: Provide a sequence of timed prompts (5 min observe, 5 min breathe, 10 min write, 15 min sit).
• Overnight Solo: Extended solo in wilderness programmes. Requires significant preparation and safety infrastructure.
• Walking Solo: Instead of sitting, participants walk a loop trail alone at their own pace.

When NOT to use this

• When participants have untreated mental health conditions that make solitude distressing (check with organisers).
• In locations with genuine safety hazards.
• Without a clear recall system — people need to know when it ends.
• When the schedule is too packed to allow proper settling time (under 20 minutes).

Source & further reading

• Knapp, C. (1999). In Accord with Nature. ERIC Clearinghouse.
• Various wilderness therapy and Outward Bound programme guides.