Would you date yourself? Do you enjoy your own company enough to schedule time just for you to visit places and do activities that make you and only you happy? Ideally your answer would be a resounding “GIRL, YES!” If you have any hesitation, reconsider the joys and benefits. The act of dating yourself can be an incomparably liberating experience. At its core, it’s all about self-love, and the benefits include a fierce new level of independence, unshakable self-confidence and a deep curiosity which will result in cool new interests.
Once you start, dating yourself can get very addictive. Many of us seek the approval of others before making life decisions, or think we need a partner to be happy. But dating yourself will teach you how to be comfortable in your own skin so you can trust your own gut and so you can be a healthy partner .
Here is a list of dating yourself ideas to help you jumpstart your journey:
Cultivate a night-time routine
This is a great starting point. Developing a night-time routine gives you an opportunity to create space and time to focus on just you. This routine can involve fixing yourself a cup of tea, reading a book, spending a bit more time on your nighttime skincare regimen, lighting a favorite candle or doing a bedtime yoga sequence on YouTube. When you come across activities that bring you peace, take note and work to incorporate them as regularly as possible.
Volunteer
Think about it. How great do you feel after giving back? Carve out time to work a few hours at your local food bank, animal shelter, or to participate in a beautification project. By the end, your heart will be full and proud.
Break A Sweat
Hit a local hiking trail and become one with nature. Or sign up for the yoga class you’ve had your eye on. Go out and get active! The post-workout endorphins will be life-changing.
Get Skilled
Interested in learning to code, pottery, graphic design...the list is endless. Whatever you’re into, go take a class to get your feet wet. Taking the first step to explore and invest into your interests could lead to a lifelong hobby or, even better, be the gateway to a side hustle.
Go to the movies
Contrary to popular belief, going to the movies does not have to be reserved for date night or group outings. Grab some of your favorite snacks and a mini bottle of your favorite wine (if you dare) and kick your feet up to take in the latest flick solo. Be warned, once you’ve done this activity once you may never want to go to the movies with other people again.
Dinner for one
This one can seem way more intimidating than it is. If you want to ease into this one, try starting off at a café or hitting a restaurant during lunchtime. Feel free to bring your favorite book. Eventually you can work up to a dinnertime date and request to sit at the bar. Bonus points, if you strike up a conversation with the bartender or a fellow solo diner.
Try A New Look
Sometimes the best way to show yourself love is to allow yourself to express your personal, uninhibited style. Maybe there's something you've always wanted to wear or a hairstyle you've always wanted to try but you've never had the courage to go for it. This is your time! A new look can give you a fresh look on life and leave you feeling more refreshed and confident. If you're ready, try easing in with hair extensions first to make sure you'll absolutely love your new style.
Take a short day or weekend trip
This may be peak self-dating right here and it’s also the most gratifying. Pack your bags and get ready to experience the freedom and joy of being able to explore with complete autonomy. No need to wait on travel buddies to wake up or trying to coordinate multiple must-sees because it’s all about you! Wake up and go when you want to, wherever you want to. You can start small with a staycation at a cute boutique hotel, then take a drive to check out a nearby city, and eventually leave the country solo.
