The Paradox of Solitude: Embrace and Thrive
I recently went on a solo two day backpacking trip to summit Pikes Peak. It was an amazing and challenging experience,
but one of the most poked at topic I received when returning was how crazy I was for doing it solo in the sense of how I had no one to talk to, listen to, or even utilize any forms of audio distractions such as music or podcasts/audiobooks. It baffles people on how can one stand being alone with your own thoughts. "Didn't you get bored with yourself?!"
In a world brimming with noise and distractions, the struggle some face in being alone with their thoughts is both intriguing and concerning. Let's explore this paradox: 'Why do some find solitude daunting? Yet we soon discover the incredible rewards in mastering contentment within it?'
The Challenge of Solitude:
Understand your Self-Talk
“How are your thoughts when relaxed?
How are they when you are challenged?”
In our hyperconnected world, the absence of external distractions can make solitude... unsettling, leading to restlessness and anxiety. And this really takes deliberate practice to get accustomed to.
The Benefits of Solitude:
Self-Reflection: Solitude offers a space for introspection, aiding personal growth.
Creativity: Embracing solitude encourages creativity by freeing the mind to explore new ideas.
Emotional Resilience: It builds emotional resilience by allowing the processing of emotions.
Understand your Self-Talk: Speaking of processing emotions, you can become aware of the tone of you self talk. Are you motivating? How are your thoughts when relaxed? How are they when you are challenged? Are these thoughts for or against your present goal?
Independence: It cultivates self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on external validation.
Becoming Present: Disconnect from devices to reduce distractions can make you hyper aware of what's going on around you and events that are currently happening.
Perform Solo Activities: I myself enjoy solo Hikes/Rucks, where the activity alone keeps your mind mentally engaged just enough to be entertained, but simple enough to allow self talk to take place.
Pursue Passions: Engage in activities you're passionate about.
Then there are the dangers of not finding peace in solitude:
Increased Stress: Avoiding solitude can lead to chronic stress, as it denies you the opportunity to relax and recharge away from external distractions.
Strained Relationships: An inability to find peace in solitude can hinder self-awareness and emotional regulation, potentially leading to conflicts and strained relationships with others.
Decreased Creativity: Neglecting solitude stifles creativity, as it's often where innovative ideas are born, hindering problem-solving abilities.
Mental Health Issues: Prolonged avoidance of solitude can contribute to anxiety and depression, limiting your ability to process thoughts and emotions.
Dependency on Validation: Constant engagement with others may lead to a reliance on external validation for self-worth, making it challenging to feel confident and content alone.
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: Some individuals may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as overeating or substance abuse, to avoid solitude and its discomfort.
Remember, mastering solitude is a lifelong journey, rich in self-discovery and wisdom. Embrace it, and you'll find the rewards far outweigh the initial unease.
Wishing you a fulfilling journey of self-discovery.
