When was the last time you dated yourself? Indulging in some luxury and alone time may just be the self-care ritual you’ve been waiting for.
But how do you date yourself? Let’s explore together.
First off, what exactly is a solo date?
A solo date is a date you plan for yourself. It may look similar to dates you plan with others! You might consider a charming café, local concert, hike, or movie night. Read on for many more ideas!
Solo dates are dates for you and only you. No partners, friends, or other folks involved! The only person who matters is the person in the mirror. Speaking of, there’s no shame in getting fancy for a solo date! The trick is to explore and discover what you love, what turns you on, and what brings you connection.
The benefits of solo dating
Expressing self-love comes with some major benefits, and solo dating is no exception. Let’s explore some potential benefits!
- No compromises, no problems! On solo dates, you do you – without any hesitation or compromise. You can see that cheesy movie without having to worry about what others might think. You can get dressed up or stay cozy in your sweats.
- Discover new ways to spark joy! Taking time to explore your interests will bring you pleasure as you discover hobbies, recipes, and activities that you enjoy. There’s no right or wrong way to dive into trying something new! But if you’re having trouble, try brainstorming a long list of fun things you’ve wanted to try. Write each idea on a slip of paper, and toss those in a little bag or box. Every time you plan a solo date, reach in for inspiration!
- Strengthen external relationships. As the saying goes, you can’t give what you don’t have. And that includes love. Dating yourself translates to knowing yourself, learning about yourself, and falling in love with yourself, which translates to stronger relationships with others.
Planning your solo date night
While you can adventure out on a spontaneous solo date (and hey, why not?), you can also build anticipation by planning a solo date in advance! Here’s how:
- Choose a day and time, and commit to it. No one likes to be stood up. Treat yourself with that same level of commitment!
- Brainstorm solo date ideas, and see what comes to mind first! If the idea excites you, that's a great sign. You could also explore something slightly outside your comfort zone. Who knows? You might end up loving it!
- Dress up in any way that feels good! Treat yourself to a little extra TLC. You deserve it, ‘cause you’re pretty special.
Reminder: Solo dates do not need to be expensive or elaborate. It just has to be all about you!
10 simple solo date night ideas
Bookstore and coffee: Grab a cup of coffee at your favorite coffee shop. Cozy up by the window, and drown yourself in that book you’ve been wanting to read.
Movie night: Romance, drama, comedy – take your pick! Take yourself out to the movies, and relieve some stress in a fictional world.
Cook something fancy: Light some candles, and turn up the music with a delicious dinner for one.
Bath with a show: Use one of those bath bombs you’ve been saving, pick a new show on Netflix, and light a candle for the ultimate relaxation.
Nature walk: Get outside, and explore your neighborhood or a nearby trail. Keep your eyes out for wildflowers!
Take a class: Learn something new. If you’ve always wanted to try yoga, cook an aspirational recipe, or learn how to knit, now’s the time! Youtube is a great (free) resource for this!
Treat yourself to a spa day or spa night at home: Give your skin some TLC. Get a mani-pedi and light some candles. Pamper your body!
Take yourself out to dinner at your favorite restaurant or somewhere new: Eat, sit back, and relax.
Picnic under the stars: Pack a picnic basket, relax and do some stargazing.
Ready to get started?
The best part about solo-dating is YOU. Go at your own pace, start small, start big, do whatever feels right for you. Enjoy your self-love journey.
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