Embracing the Art of Being Alone with Francesca Specter

This podcast episode is a companion to “Issue #68: In Defense of Spending 'Twixmas Solo.”

When I separated from my husband at the end of 2022 and moved into my first solo apartment, it took me a long time to be okay with being alone—let alone practice what Francesca Specter calls alonement, or time spent alone that feels like the opposite of loneliness.

I recently spoke to Francesca who, as if to illustrate her point, was in the middle of two months of solo traveling in Portugal. We chatted about the importance of being intentional with alone time, regardless of one’s relationship status or family size. This is never more important than during the holidays, when we are overrun with social obligations that may call for a recharge. In fact, Francesca argues, the time between Christmas and New Year’s is the perfect time to be selfish with your solo time to reflect and prepare for the year ahead. Below is our full conversation:

Thanks for listening! You can access the original issue here.

Issue #68: In Defense of Spending 'Twixmas Solo