No one exists in isolation - from the moment we enter this world, we embark on a journey of connection with those around us. Our close family, friends, and romantic relationships provide us with a sense of security and belonging, allowing us to flourish in life. However, amidst these cherished bonds, have you ever experienced an unexplainable feeling of solitude? Have you found yourself surrounded by loved ones, yet yearning for a moment of solitude away from the commotion and celebration, but to feel guilty and uneasy about it? 

Learning to embrace solitude is a vital aspect of personal growth, often mistaken for loneliness. By cultivating the art of being alone, we gain the opportunity to settle our thoughts, understand our needs, and navigate emotional hurdles that may arise within our relationships. Through this process, we discover a harmonious balance between engaging with others and cultivating a nurturing relationship with ourselves. Embracing solitude allows us to walk at our own pace and construct a life of autonomy, where we can truly discover our individuality and inner strength.

Speaker Bio: 

Winnie Ng is a certified counselor, member and associate fellow of the Hong Kong Professional Counseling Association, as well as a registered social worker, and a part-time lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, where she teaches counseling courses at the Hong Kong Institute of Education and marriage counseling at the Department of Social Work. She has been using family systems theory to help clients cope with marital distress, parent-child relationship, personal mental health and workplace stress.