Positive Solitude: A Practical Program for Mastering Loneliness and Achieving Self-Fulfillment

I'm compelled to write this review to contradict the reviewer who thinks the author sees solitude as "the one and only end to a life alone", (I suspect the reviewer meant the one and only end is a life alone) and "discouraging someone from starting new relationships." Both these criticisms are so far from what this book is about as to be laughable. I agree instead with the reviewer who noted that this book is a masterpiece. It is definitely not a book about coping with loneliness. It is a beautifully and compassionately written corrective to the unexamined dogmas of a modern society that believes the only path to personal meaning and happiness lies only in relationship. Positive Solitude is about understanding the other side of the coin, and takes a hard look at personal freedom, examines the trap of social metaphysics (the 'what the majority believes and does must be true' fallacy), and advocates the power of choice, personal responsibility and finding one's own meaning. In short, it's a book about really growing up instead of just growing old. Positive Solitude is at the other end of the spiritual and intellectual spectrum from popular claptrap such as 'The Secret', 'Seven Habits of Highly Effective People' or 'How To Win Friends and Influence People' and shares the same space on my bookshelves along with the likes of Thoreau, Emerson, Montaigne and Nathaniel Branden. However, I should stress that, above all, as the sub-title suggests, it's rooted firmly in the here and now and is a supremely practical guide to living a fulfilled life alone, if that is your choice. This is a gem, a one of a kind book written by a self-realised author. If you're willing to look and do the necessary work, it will help you find your own independent path and thereby discover your uniqueness.

This book is a masterpiece. If you are confronted with solitude, this book will help you embrace it. It covers different aspects of solitude (vs. loneliness), such as decision-making, sensuality, celebrations, psychotherapy. It helps you view your solitude without shame.

A rare piece of work.Would love to exchange ideas on the subject w/other readers.Please feel free to E-Mail me.

I fell hopelessly in love w/the idea of a woman who loves solitude as much as I do.Such a rare,rare creature and very thoughtful of her subject.I suggested that the author start a magazine for people who love solitude,her ideas are just that crisp.Her conviction of the subject does surpass my own.Coupled solitude(which would also make a great magazine)might be more my speed.

This book was a tremondous help to me when I was divorced. It helped me focus on what is really important - which is different then the message we receive from society-at-large. I was positively jubilant after reading it. Bring it back into print!!!