In the hustle of daily life, moments of solitude can feel like an indulgence rather than a necessity.  But these quiet hours have a profound impact on our well-being. I never realized this until one Friday, when, for a few precious hours, I had the house entirely to myself. This is a story of discovering peace and balance, and why those moments alone can be so valuable.

Before 2020, my days were fairly predictable. Between dropping my daughter at school, sending my son off to the hostel, and saying goodbye to my husband as he left for the office, I enjoyed a few hours to myself. My evenings were spent catching up with friends, sharing unfiltered chats that helped me unwind.

But everything changed with the lockdowns. Suddenly, my home became a constant flurry of activity. Schools and offices shifted online, and my previously quiet mornings were filled with Zoom meetings and meal preparations. The alone time I once took for granted seemed like a distant memory.

Fast forward to 2023, and while some routines returned to normal, mine didn’t fully shift back. My husband works from home four days a week, and our weekends are a blend of family time and household chores. I’ve reached an age where my body craves rest, and my mind seeks peace amidst the constant motion. One Friday morning, when everyone was finally out of the house, I felt something I hadn’t experienced in years—calm.

#Finding Solace in Solitude

In that moment, I did something unusual. I didn’t pick up my phone, watch a show, or even try to tackle my to-do list. I simply sat still. What surprised me was the peace that filled me. I realized how much I needed this, not just for my body, but for my mind and soul.

The guilt crept in, though. Was I happy without my loved ones around? But I knew it wasn’t about happiness; it was about balance. I love my family deeply, but being surrounded by them all the time can feel overwhelming. As my friends and I chatted, I learned they felt the same. We all need that time alone to feel lighter, to let go off the constant responsibility.   # A Journey Through Personal Time and Family Life

I now cherish these moments. I return to my family in the evening with open arms, a genuine smile, and a rejuvenated spirit. Those hours alone aren’t selfish—they’re a way to recharge and be the best version of myself. My grandmother used to say, “Household chores only end when the men leave for work.” There’s truth in that, and there’s beauty in knowing when it’s time to pause.

If you’ve ever felt a tinge of guilt for wanting time alone, know you’re not alone. Embrace the stillness, even if just for a few hours. It’s in these moments we find the strength to be present, to welcome our loved ones back with full hearts. Here’s to finding balance, to more Fridays of peace, and to the joy that solitude can bring.