"Whosoever is delighted in solitude, is either a wild beast or a god."

The heart of this quote is about the nature of solitude. It suggests that finding joy in being alone is rare and extreme—either you have the simplicity and natural instinct of an animal or the profound wisdom and self-sufficiency of a deity. It's a provocative way to highlight how most people naturally seek social interaction and community, implying that those who thrive in solitude are exceptional.

Historically, this quote comes from Aristotle, an ancient Greek philosopher. Back in his time, society was highly communal. People lived in tight-knit groups, making solitude an unusual lifestyle. Aristotle was all about exploring human nature and society, and this quote reflects his interest in what makes us tick.

Let's bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Picture a successful entrepreneur, someone like Steve Jobs. Jobs was known for his bouts of intense solitude. He'd disappear into his thoughts, sometimes going on long walks alone to think deeply about his work. This solitude wasn't loneliness—it was a space where he could innovate and imagine without distractions. Like the "god" in Aristotle's quote, Jobs used his solitude to reach heights most people don't.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom to your life? First, don't be afraid of being alone. Try taking time for yourself, even if it's just a few minutes a day. Use that time to reflect, think, or just enjoy your own company. It's not about becoming a hermit—it's about finding a balance where you're comfortable with yourself without relying on constant external validation. Consider setting aside a quiet time each day, like a morning walk or an evening meditation, to get in touch with your thoughts.

Imagine this: You’ve had a stressful week. Work’s been hectic, and your social calendar is packed. By Friday, you’re feeling drained. Instead of heading out for more social activities, you decide to spend Saturday alone. You turn off your phone, make your favorite breakfast, and sit on your porch with a cup of coffee. As you enjoy the peace, you start to feel your mind unwind. You doodle in a sketchbook, something you loved as a kid but never have time for now. By the end of the day, you feel recharged and connected to yourself in a way you haven’t for ages.

This doesn't mean you're becoming a "wild beast" by rejecting society, nor does it mean you're an enlightened "god." It means you’re allowing yourself a moment of solitude to recharge, think, or just be. In a world that's always on, giving yourself that space can be incredibly grounding.

So, next time you find yourself alone, embrace it. Use it as a chance to listen to your inner voice without the noise of the outside world. You might be surprised by what you discover about yourself in those quiet moments. And who knows? Maybe you'll find a bit of the wild beast's simplicity or the god's insight within you.