how does a person strike a balance between 'a need for companionship' and a 'longing for solitude'?

Answer 1

In my view, one of the most insightful questions I have come across here!!

Yes, indeed constant companionship would be a burden since we do not feel quite as free as we want to be when in company. Therefore, no companionship succeeds unless there is a tacit understanding for the breaks either for other company or for being alone. Fortunately, the desire for having some free time alone is so very universal that both parties in companionship would want it....... all that is required then is to have this insight and the give and take attitude to let go every now and then.

It is not just about being physically alone, it is also about being busy otherwise to even keep the mind away from the companion's thoughts every now and then. This is why a calculated distance between companions is very essential to avoid becoming overbearing even mentally. This is highly important for married couples.

We are strange creatures... while we do want independence, we find all our happiness in bondage and yet keep longing for independence as well. Your question is indeed about this human phenomenon.

Answer 2

I can relate to this question because I am also a person who "likes to know there's someone there but preferably in another room".

I have two suggestions that have worked for me. The first is become a shift worker. You'd be surprised at how much free time you get within the relationship when you are coming and going at all hours.

The second solution has already been put up by someone else. Find a partner who feels the same way.

Answer 3

That is an excellent question and so difficult to achieve but it can be if you focus your life an d the events that happen on a day to day basis..Life can overwhelm us and I fight it every day with my busy Corporate schedule but you work hard then you play hard and you find time for you and then time with others keep the balance see people even if it is just your neighbor next door....We all need one another and we all need Solitude to get right with our body, mind and soul..............
both are equally important for the human species you should have both in your life unless if you were becoming a monk and even they come off the mountains to be with others human nature :))))

Answer 4

I think the simple more common answer to that question would be non-committal sex.

I think the movie/book High Fidelity did it pretty well when the lead character reminisced about the relationship he had with one woman where they both mutually hated their ex's while enjoying each others company.

Answer 5

With cat cunning and feline felicitude..But be careful what you wish for.. and where you eventually decide to live..I've learnt to mimic birds out here on the perimeter..and they answer back! Straight arrow.Oh,and this electrical device is cool too...and the station wagon.Going now.

Answer 6

I live this, but it took some time to get to that place. You really have to work at it to make it happen for yourself. You pick and chose your time with who and when. In my case my spouse has as many interests as I do and most are not mutual so it works out well for us.

Answer 7

Just takes what we need or want, and worries about the consciences and their silly consequences when? People understand or they don’t we can only spend so much time and effort trying to help them understand.

Answer 8

Find a companion that feels the same way. Then, you both can share together time, but also appreciate your need for time alone.

Answer 9

Like the skillful scientist would...experiment.

Answer 10

depends on the situation as 1 can't say anything abt how any other person would react