
The Next Big Idea Daily The Power of Being Alone: Why Solitude Is Good for You
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Dec 18, 2025 In this insightful conversation, psychologist Robert Coplan and poet Amy Key explore the joys of solitude. Coplan differentiates solitude from loneliness, highlighting its vital restorative properties. He introduces the concept of 'a-loneliness,' illustrating how craving alone time can lead to stress. Meanwhile, Key emphasizes self-kindness and the importance of personal celebrations outside traditional norms. They both challenge cultural narratives, arguing that life can be rich and fulfilling without romantic love, promoting a broader definition of connection.
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Solitude Is Different From Loneliness
- Solitude is distinct from loneliness and can be a chosen restorative space.
- Solitude offers rest, reflection, and incubates problem-solving and creativity.
A-Loneliness: Missing Enough Me-Time
- Coplan coins "a-loneliness" to describe wanting more alone time than you get.
- A-loneliness can cause stress, sadness, and anger similar to loneliness.
Start Small And Protect Your Alone Time
- Do start with just 15 minutes a day of intentional solitude and build up slowly.
- Put your phone away or silence notifications to protect your alone time.
