Cultivating Solitude

So many benefits

“There is no doubt that solitude is a challenge and to maintain balance within it a precarious business. But I must not forget that, for me, being with people or even with one beloved person for any length of time without solitude is even worse. I lose my center. I feel dispersed, scattered, in pieces. I must have time alone in which to mull over my encounter, and to extract its juice, its essence, to understand what has really happened to me as a consequence of it.” (Mary Sarton, Journal of a Solitude)

For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken. 
Psalm 62:1-2 ESV

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With today’s technology, we are almost always connected to someone or something. Why might we need to carve out time for solitude? What are the benefits of being alone with our thoughts?

Being alone deepens our concentration, focus, and ability to problem-solve.

Being alone can boost creativity, allow thoughts to incubate, and provide clarity.

Scientists say being alone can strengthen empathy, helping you develop compassion for those around you.

More importantly, being alone allows us to hear God's thoughts and experience the divine. We gain perspective, restoration, and peace from quiet solitude.

Let’s cultivate moments of solitude in our lives. ₍₁₀₀₎