by Stephanie Andrews

Created on: July 21, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2010

Perhaps I take on an individualistic persona when I say this, but I enjoy the feeling of solitude. In a world where people often enjoy socializing and jumping from one event to the next, there is something luxurious and slow-paced about those moments to yourself.

As many would agree, the weekdays are mostly composed of hitting your alarm clock in the wee hours of the morning, transporting yourself to work, going through the motions of your normal work day, and then getting home in just enough time to make dinner and then go to bed. Not to mention that this cycle will restart itself in only a few short hours.

Perhaps this is a rather depressing way of looking at life, but in a world of constant work days, chores, and those little moments of socializing, it is refreshing to have moments that are completely enjoyable because they center around you. 

Perhaps I'm too selfish, but I pride myself on being independent, and that means enjoying those rather significant moments of solitude where for a moment the world revolves around you. You don't need to make small talk, fix dinner, do laundry, or any of the assorted chores and daily grueling tasks; all you must do is come home, throw on your coziest pajamas, make yourself a nice bubble bath, drink a lovely glass of wine and read that novel you have wanted to start for weeks but never could find time for.  

Personally, I have found solitude to do two things for me: provide me with a few hours of peace (to allow myself to unwind after a long day) and to help get my priorities in order. I have often found that moments in solitude have helped me gather my thoughts regarding myself, my goals, the world, my relationships, and how I shall go about getting the most out of life. It has helped me make major decisions for the future, and I am so pleased to have such small moments of glorious solitude in the midst of chaos. Having those moments of peace and quiet, to absorb your thoughts and listen to your wants, is important.

Again, I realize how individualistic this sounds, but I also realize how important it is to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. If you don't give yourself the time, respect, and occasional pampering, how will you ever be mentally, emotionally, and physically able to help others?

Solitude provides you with so many benefits: prioritizing, daydreaming, creating realistic, and sometimes idealistic goals, de-stressing, physical and mental relaxation, and enjoyment. Nothing sounds

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