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CREATE YOUR OWN
SPECIAL PLACE

Since I’m a very private person who loves solitude, this strategy has particular meaning for me. Going to my own special place, just to be alone and quiet, has become one of the greatest joys of my life. Each minute I’m there seems to have the power to release any amount of stress that I had been experiencing.

Having your own special place can serve many important functions. It’s a place where you can be alone to think or reflect. It’s a place where you can pray or meditate, draw or write poetry, or write in your journal. It’s a place where you can clear your mind and be still. But more important than what you do while you’re there, the best and perhaps most important part is that you associate your special place with peace and happiness.

Although many people long for their own special place, some fear it’s unrealistic because of financial reasons. Finances don’t have to be an obstacle. I know, because I had my own special place, even as a kid. Your place doesn’t have to be an entire room. It can be a corner of a room, under a set of stairs, or part of a closet. If need be, it can even be outside. In fact, my older daughter has a special place in the yard she calls her fort. She goes there when she wants to be alone or when she feels the need to escape chaos. Once I entered without her permission, not knowing she was there. Immediately, in a firm but loving tone, she asked me to leave.

There are no rules about having a special place, such as how often you visit or how long you should stay once you’re there. It doesn’t matter what it looks like either. You can decorate it or not; it’s up to you. The only thing that’s important is that you think of it as your own—a place to go when you feel like being alone.

I’ve found that when I’m feeling happy, being in my special place enhances and deepens that feeling. When I’m uptight and sweating the small stuff, it helps me relax and regain my perspective. When I’m sad, it helps me clear my mind and get back on track. And when I feel like I just need some space from others, it’s the perfect place to get away.

You might want to look around and see what might work for you. If you love what you find, great, stick with it. But if it doesn’t feel right, don’t worry. In time you’ll find the best possible place for you.