Isolation Vs. Solitude

Isolation Vs. Solitude

Isolation and solitude both indicate conditions of being by yourself. Both are similar yet opposite. Solitude is a personal choice driven by inner desire. It is actively pursued and involves taking time to reflect on certain things you feel are important and need more attention. While doing so, one can re-energize and re-focus on reconnecting with their inner being to find inner peace. Solitude is positive as it can help one cope with a problematic situation or heal from painful experiences. Here, one is alone but not lonely since he or she is still a part of a social group. Solitude is deliberate and allows one to get a new view of life, discover who they are, or connect with a higher spiritual being.

Isolation is typically actively avoided and is driven by outside forces. It can be due to disease, discrimination, or unattractiveness of the character being isolated. In isolation, one is alone and very lonely, but it is not always the case as it can also be a personal choice. It goes against social instinct that draws us to want to associate with others. In isolation, the individual can socially or physically separate themselves from those around or close to him. He or she is apart from others, either separated by a distance or surrounded by people, which can be very depressing. .

Solitude can lead to the formation of stronger, healthier relationships with those around us, and helps forge positive social connections. On the other hand, isolation is a desperate effort in trying to connect with others by making them long for your presence. It comes off as being selfish, but it is a sign of emotional distress and is a cry for help.