Benefits to Experiencing Solitude
Benefits to Experiencing Solitude
Solitude—the word is scary to some people, but for many, solitude is one of the greatest aspects of their lives. I do not think that people see the advantages of living a solitary life. Most of the time they think that it would be miserable. For many people, their picture of solitude is someone pacing the house trying to escape boredom or loneliness. I think differently. Solitude enables you to grow in many directions: in self-reliance, in enjoyment of life, and in dealing with life’s difficult situations. It is a way of getting to know oneself.
Many people misconceive solitude. A lot of people believe that they have to be with other people at all times. They never look inward nor outward—they do not even look back; solitude is left in the dust. When spending time with others, it is difficult to discuss things about yourself with yourself. I know that sounds funny, but it is very true. If you are spending time with others, you usually do what they want to do or you do something that involves all of you. You may learn things about what you enjoy doing—golfing, playing guitar, reading—but you never really learn about what your inner thoughts are. When people make assumptions about solitude, their misconceptions prevent them from learning about themselves.
Solitude helps you believe in yourself. If you are always dependent on other people, you will not be able to deal with life’s changes. Solitude, however, helps you become more independent. Imagine yourself trapped on a deserted island. There is nobody else within 300 miles. What would you do? Solitude helps you utilize your independent capabilities. You have to rely on yourself to use your own resources to solve the problems held before you. The same kind of isolation can occur if you live in an apartment in New York City or Chicago. You have to rely on yourself to function. Self-reliance can help you solve not only small problems, like fixing the bathroom sink, it may also help you solve complex problems such as what you want to do with your life.
Solitude can bring enjoyment and excitement to your life. I didn’t really believe this at first, but once I tried to live in solitude, I...