5 Things Solitude Will Teach You

When we come to speak about solitude, many can have it misinterpreted. Solitude is associated with loneliness while in fact, it is far from that connotation. There is a difference between being alone and being lonely. Being lonely is a sad emotional state we encounter when we feel abandoned, cut off, or out of touch with those around us. It is longing for connection. You don’t have to be alone to feel lonely; you can be surrounded by friends but still feel lonely. Loneliness is marked by a sense of isolation. On the other hand, being alone doesn’t have the same negative emotional charge. You can be alone and perfectly happy on your own, not needing to reach out for someone to connect with. To sum it up, being alone is a state of being while being lonely is a feeling. So, it is not until we learn to enjoy our own company that we’ll never feel lonely. Here is why you need more time alone.

 

1. You learn more about yourself. It is only when you are alone that you have the chance to reflect on different aspects of your life. It gives you a better understanding of who you are and what you want in life. When you are alone you listen to your inner voice alone and learn to do what you want, not what others convince you with.

 

2. You will take a break from everything around you. It’s all very hectic and rushed around us. When you spend time alone, you get to slow down the pace of your life and enjoy being present in the moment.

 

3. You will learn to become self-reliant. Unlike when you are always surrounded by people, you rely on them for emotional support. When you spend time alone you become self-reliant. You learn how to independently handle your emotions.

 

4. You will become more creative. Solitude sparks creativity. This is why authors, painters, and other types of artists love to spend time on their own. It gives them a chance to wander and reflect.

 

5. You will have better relationships with others. Spending time alone makes you understand better, what you like and what you don’t, hence you know what you want from people around and you will make better relationship choices. Also, spending time alone after an argument or a fight gives you time to calm down and assess the situation sensibly instead of blowing things out of proportion.