In this episode of Table Pancakes, Katherine and Shelbi reflect on solo time—why they embrace it, how they navigate it, and where it fits in today’s individualistic, digitally connected (yet increasingly lonely) society.

What We Cover:

Understanding What We Want & Need from Alone Time

• Human Design helps determine when and how we need solitude—whether for rest, reflection, or inspiration.
• Communicating your need for solo time so others know when you’re recharging is essential.

Finding Comfort in Being With Yourself

• Using solo time to pursue personal goals, cultivate contentment, and deepen self-awareness.
• “If you are lonely when you’re alone, you are in bad company.” – Jean-Paul Sartre
• The delicious nature of solitude and the idea that “you are with you” (inspired by Gwendolyn Brooks’ poem "Aloneness" from her 1974 University of Iowa reading).

The Cost of Convenience Over Connection

• Why social media voyeurism isn’t a real connection—but engaging with someone’s content can be a low-effort way to spark conversation.
• Extending invitations to connect is essential, even when solo time feels comfortable.

Seeking Community in an Increasingly Pay-to-Play Society

• How can we recognize loneliness in others and help introduce them to like-minded people?
• Instagram is the modern-day calling card—publicly displaying activity while increasing FOMO (inspired by Derek Thompson’s article Why Americans Suddenly Stopped Hanging Out in The Atlantic).
• The decline of free/low-cost communal spaces vs. the rise of exclusive membership-based communities leaves society in a “messy middle” of unpacking individualism, capitalism, and the soft skills needed to build authentic relationships.

Join the Conversation!

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Connect with us: @shelbihq | @katherinehfoster

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