Monday Mantra: Finding Joy in Solitude

Did you miss me around here? I know I have been a little MIA lately, so please accept my apologies for the sparse posting schedule last week. I can assure you that the lack of posts haven’t been out of neglect, but to be candid, I really haven’t done anything exciting in the last week that has been worth sharing—unless you find packing and cleaning a house fascinating. And if you do, please call me. I could always use a helper!

Now that we’ve gotten the apology and explanation out of the way, I thought I would share about a quick solo excursion that I went on over the weekend. Since I’m an only child, you’d think I would be good at alone time. Well, for the most part, I am. I am fairly adept at entertaining myself, but have gotten used to having company for many summer activities that I love—beaching, brunching, and paddle boarding, mainly.

But what’s a girl to do when one of those activities is planned and there is no one available to go with you? Why, you go alone. I’m good with that…I think? Yes, I am. But what I needed work on was the whole being alone thing with no activity planned—à la, my most recent trip to Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge over the weekend.

I always enjoy my time at the wildlife refuge. Target Rock offers a beautiful hiking trail through nature that concludes with a scenic beach. For me, it is the best of both worlds. So, when I ventured out to Target Rock sans book, buddy, or another person in sight, I initially struggled with the whole game plan. I enjoyed the quiet nature hike, took a long stroll on the beach, and then found myself suddenly isolated and bored. Had I become so accustomed to company that I could no longer amuse myself?

It got hot down on the beach and my legs were getting tired from walking over the rocky terrain. But I wasn’t ready to throw in the towel (no pun intended, since I was actually holding a towel). So I did the next best thing—I found a sitting area nestled under the trees and I just sat there. I didn’t look at my phone…didn’t text anyone…I just sat there in silence. I watched all of the boats pass each other in the water in front of me. I heard chipmunks rustling in the trail behind me. But I didn’t see another soul for the entire time that I sat there.

Eventually, I glanced at my phone to check the time. Two whole hours had passed since I found that respite. My legs felt limp from sitting for so long, but it was the most peaceful two hours I’ve had in weeks. I was completely isolated and removed from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. There were no interferences—emails, texts, or social media. I was just enjoying nature and truly relaxing for the first time in a very long time.