Our fast-paced society does not approve of solitude; being alone is literally anti-social and some even find it sinister. Why is this so when autonomy, personal freedom and individualism are more highly prized than ever before? Sara Maitland answers this question by exploring changing attitudes throughout history. Offering experiments and strategies for overturning our fear of solitude, she helps us to practise it without anxiety and encourages us to see the benefits of spending time by ourselves. By indulging in the experience of being alone, we can be inspired to find our own rewards and ultimately lead more enriched, fuller lives.
One in the new series of books from The School of Life, launched January 2014:
How to Age by Anne Karpf
How to Develop Emotional Health by Oliver James
How to Be Alone by Sara Maitland
How to Deal with Adversity by Christopher Hamilton
How to Think About Exercise by Damon Young
How to Connect with Nature by Tristan Gooley