5 Solo Date Ideas to Try This Weekend
I’ve always admired people who are able to spend time with themselves. Especially those who enjoy meals at restaurants, see movies, or just read in a coffee shop. I do not have the confidence and self-assurance to do that most of the time. The few times I’ve eaten by myself at restaurants, I feel so awkward it makes me more anxious and I’m constantly aware of every movement I make. So it’s safe to say, I don’t do that much.
Being coupled up can get….frustrating. Recently, I’ve been realizing I need to take a step back because I find myself being far too drained and frustrated at the end of the day. Nothing is more frustrating than feeling utterly drained by a guy you care about and enjoy so much. Human connection is essential to life. We need it to survive. But at the same time, if we don’t have happiness or confidence, how can we continue to provide that love to others?
People today, despite being hyperconnected, are feeling increasingly lonely. Solo dates can be a great way to recharge when life gets overwhelming. Solo dates can also increase confidence, allow you to try new things, have experiences, and put your happiness in your own hands. You’re not relying on someone else to pick up the slack. The only obstacles to solo dates are finding something you want to do and ignoring the tiny voice that is nagging you about people looking at you. Even if the solo dates begin at home with something as simple as cooking a meal, it’s the baby steps that matter. Once we are happier and more confident, the possibilities are endless.
Now, I don’t go on too many regular dates (I’m so bad at them!!) let alone solo dates, so we are going to take on this challenge “together.” But like…separate. You know what I mean.
Cook Yourself Dinner
I love cooking in general. Of course, cooking for one is kinda difficult and feels..sad. But it doesn’t have to! This is your chance to try something NEW and delicious. No more eating mac-n-cheese from the pot or trying to make a packet of ramen look…exciting. Take the time to turn on tunes and prepare a delicious meal. Don’t forget to take the time to savor your real, sit down meal.
Treat Yourself…Within Reason
This can take many forms. You can do a little retail therapy because you’ve had your eyes on that new pair of boots for a while. You could go to the farmers’ market and get yourself some flowers. You could enjoy a bottle of bubbly while enjoying that whole new album you’ve been meaning to listen to. Taking the time to let yourself know how wonderful you are is important. It may even have a positive impact on your day.
Take a Class
Taking a class is beneficial in two ways. First, you are getting time away from everything else since you have to focus on what you’re doing. Second, you get to learn something new or expand on things you already know. You can take a dance class, a fitness class, or even take a class online. Whatever you do, put away your phone and completely submerge yourself into the course. We all like different things and it’s better not to wait for someone to magically want to learn the same thing. Go for it.
Me at the Phoenix Art Museum via @rachaelmyers
Wander the Museum
I love going to the museum. There is always so much to explore and see. New exhibits and sometimes there’s even movies and classes. You get to immerse yourself into the art and go at your own pace. You can stare at a piece for hours or maybe just a couple of seconds. It’s a peaceful place where your mind gets to be focused on something creative and how it makes you feel rather than whatever is happening in the rushed pace of life.
Baked Goods
When all else fails, make a batch of cookies. You have to focus when you bake and that means your mind is in one place. In an hour, you’ll have a delicious baked good to enjoy or, if you’re generous, share with others. Baking can actually be a great stress reliever which is probably why I make a million Christmas cookies everywhere but they are given away so everyone wins! Plus, having a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie after dinner is a proven way to cheer yourself up. I don’t make the rules.