Solitude: what is this and how to attain it?

In this intricately connected world, it is difficult to find solitude. And it is necessary that one must, from time to time. We in India are blessed that most people do not give a negative connotation to solitude, unlike in Western cultures where it may be equated with loneliness, sadness and anti-social tendencies. After all, solitude is extolled in our epics and our scriptures.

The benefits of solitude are many. It helps improve concentration, and thereby increases productivity. One is able to work more effectively and in lesser time. It provides time for you to think deeply about yourself, your work and your environment and helps think through problems more effectively and creatively.

Solitude also helps you think deeply about yourself and your relationships and thereby enhance the quality of your relationships. You may come to appreciate relationships more after you have spent time with yourself.

Which is not to say that one should give up one’s world and take to the Himalayas in search of peace. There are many small steps we can take to help ourselves.

Try switching off from distractions you can do without. Try to switch off the TV when you are watching a mindless sitcom and use that time to think about yourself, your day, your relationships, anything. Take time off from the incessant beeping of phones and messages. Just be.

See if you can get up 30 minutes earlier than usual and spend time with yourself, doing things that you like doing. It could be meditation, or gardening, or walking. Or again, just be-ing.

If you are studying or working on a project at home or in your office, shut that door. People may be taken aback if you are not used to doing this, but they would respect it soon. Tell your loved ones, or your colleagues that you are going to need that solitude.

Successful people actually mark off time on their calendars for solitude. It doesn't have to be long. Any time that you can spend alone with yourself to meditate, focus, relax, create and think deeply, is better than no time.

So, reboot your life in the coming week. Have a nice Monday!