Solitude

The Science and Power of Being Alone

By: Netta Weinstein, Heather Hansen, Thuy-vy T. Nguyen

Narrated by: Leanne Woodward

The average adult spends nearly one-third of their waking life alone. How do we overcome the stigma of solitude and find strength in going it alone? Whether we love it or try to avoid it, we can make better use of that time.

The science of solitude shows that alone time can be a powerful space used to tap into countless benefits. Translating key research findings into actionable facts and advice, this book shows that alone time can boost well-being. From relaxation and recharging to problem solving and emotional regulation, solitude can benefit personal growth, contentment, creativity, and our relationships with ourselves and others. By learning what makes us better at spending time alone, you can use these principles to move toward your best possible self.

©2024 Netta Weinstein, Heather Hansen, and Thuy-vy T. Nguyen (P)2024 Tantor

For as long as I have lived I never realized the difference between being isolation and solitude

Reading Solitude has been a grounding, transformative experience — not because it taught me something entirely new, but because it reminded me that quiet can be a form of strength. For a long time, I associated being alone with loneliness. But this book helped me understand that solitude is not the absence of connection — it’s the foundation for it.

The repetition, OMG!

After the introduction, they basically rehashed the same mundane concepts over 10 chapters. I couldn't stand it any longer and quit after 5 chapters. Most of their conclusions didn't require scientific study, just common sense. If you spend time alone, you will have less interruptions and it allow you to focus on yourself. Well, duh!