The Experience of Living Alone in a Single Room: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Independence

Living alone in a single room can be an incredibly enriching experience, providing time and space for personal growth and self-reflection. This article explores the feelings and experiences of two individuals who lived alone in a single room and delves into how such a lifestyle can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

Introduction

The journey of living alone in a single room begins at different points in life. For me, it started when I was 18, far from my parents, in a shared trainee hostel in Mumbai. Although the company was not dear, I formed new friendships that would remain significant throughout my life. Even after employment, I continued to live in hostels for nearly four years in different cities, often isolated from my family, communicating only via letters and telegrams. My son, similarly, faced a similar situation at the age of 18, staying at IIT Guwahati, where he made his own set of friends, often speaking with his parents once a week via STD phone calls.

Freedom and Self-Discovery

Living alone in a single room can be a fantastic experience, offering a unique frame of mind and a freedom that allows one to discover themselves and their true desires. I, for instance, found great joy in spending time alone, engaging in activities that were meaningful and enjoyable to me. The solitude provided the perfect environment to read, sleep, sing, or even talk to my inner voice about life, thoughts, and aspirations. This introspection often energizes and motivates one to improve themselves and understand their true selves more profoundly.

There is a certain flexibility and choice that comes with living alone. You can make new friends and choose who to befriend without the constraints of social pressure. You can create chaos in your living space and still feel great about yourself. You can delay bills, not take baths, or eat a whole pizza for yourself without any judgment. Living alone offers the opportunity to live the life you want, without the daily nagging of others.

Challenges and Achievements

Living in a single room isn't always a bed of roses. It requires discipline and adaptability. During my time in the army, I was deployed in harsh conditions, such as the high peaks of the Himalayas, the desert, and dense jungles. These environments provided a stark contrast to the urban hustle and bustle, where one could truly understand the importance of basic necessities like water, shelter, and social connections. There was little to no entertainment, and the isolation was palpable, often compounded by the sounds of shelling or the presence of a stray dog for company.

However, amidst these challenges, living alone offered profound insights. I had abundant time to ponder life's philosophies and the roles of friends and relationships. This period of solitude allowed me to understand the true value of simplicity and the importance of human connections. Similarly, my son's experience at IIT Guwahati reinforced the idea that while living alone can be tough, it is rewarding and can shape a person's character.

Conclusion

To live alone in a single room is a deeply personal experience that can be both challenging and enlightening. It offers a space for self-reflection, personal growth, and the ability to forge relationships on one's terms. As individuals, we have the choice to see this experience through a lens of either joy or difficulty, but ultimately, it is an opportunity for self-discovery and independence.

So, embrace the solitude, for in solitude lies the key to unlocking the true essence of yourself. As you navigate your journey, remember that you are capable of making the most of your time in a single room and turning it into a meaningful and fulfilling experience.