Alone vs Lonely

I spent this past weekend on a solo trip to Aspen - one of my absolute favorite places.

I love taking trips by myself - this time I found myself thinking a lot about being alone vs being lonely.

Up until three years ago, I was pretty much in a relationship since I was 16. I guess that phrase serial monogamist would have been a fitting label for me.

In the last three years, I've spent most of my time alone getting to know who I am and what I really want/need out of a relationship.

As proud as I am of all the work I've done on myself and the independence I've cultivated, it can be isolating at times.

The problem now lies in that I've gotten so used to being alone, I've built somewhat of a wall around myself. I can do anything I want alone - why do I need someone?! As one of my teacher says, if you live alone, there isn't anyone to tell you you're wrong. Which can be nice ;)

It's easy to be alone. And it's also easy to be in the wrong relationship out of fear or convenience. The delicate balance lies in being happy alone and without forcing something just because you're lonely.

Now the work for me lies in opening my heart back up while still being patient and not settling for anything less than I deserve.

Such is a great metaphor for all of life - being open to what comes without ever settling.

XO

Adrienne