How to Enjoy Solitude

Solitude can easily be seen as something isolating, especially since today's culture focuses so strongly on community and group activities. If you aren't a part of a group, you may feel as if you are missing something. However, you can enjoy spending time alone if you set aside preconceptions. Read on to learn how to enjoy solitude.

Instructions

• 1

  See solitude as a gift rather than a burden. This fundamental mind shift will have you seeking out solitude wherever you can find it. Solitude is really just time alone with yourself, and is as rewarding as time with a loved one can be-even more so because you can focus on being exactly who you are at the moment.

• 2

  Learn to love yourself. If you are going to spend time alone and enjoy it, you have to love yourself. To practice this, list ten things you love about yourself. Try listing things you love about other people if you have problems.

• 3

  Give to yourself. Now that you have this time with yourself, indulge in something that is just for you. Start or return to a hobby you love, indulge in a good book, meditate, spend time in nature or complete those things you have been putting off.

• 4

  Take some time to daydream. As children, almost everyone spent hours engaged in daydreaming whether while playing with toys, drawing, reading or just sitting. Tap into that inner child in your solitude and daydream a bit. Let your mind wander and explore your dreams.

• 5

  Plan your future. Your solitude can help you think about what it is you would truly like to be doing with your life in the future. Write down your ideas and contemplate how you can arrive at the future you envision.

• 6

  Realize that this solitude will not last forever. Knowing that there is an end to solitude makes your solitude that much more precious-and also removes the fear of isolation that solitude may bring on.