For many years people frowned at the idea of someone spending time on their own. Why don’t you go to this baking class with friends? Why do you want to go on a walk on your own? Why sit in the park with a cup of coffee in your hand and not spend that time with friends? But over the last two years solo-dating has become a total self-care trend – and honestly, I’m here for it!
what is solo dating and why do it?
Solo-dating has nothing to do with isolating yourself or swearing off relationships. It’s more about choosing time with you. It means confronting yourself, and that’s why many people don’t like it. It can feel uncomfortable at first – being alone with your thoughts is hard – but that is kind of the point. Solo time helps you recharge, understand yourself better, and realize that you don’t need anyone else to enjoy life. No one can find time in their schedule to go to this new coffee shop? Fine, just check it out yourself. You’ll discover a lot more freedom when you stop waiting for someone to tag along. And trust me – most people passing you on the streets really don’t care about your life and are way too busy with their own problems to judge a person sitting on a bench on their own.
cute solo date ideas
Going somewhere alone can feel intimidating at first, but it’s totally worth it. To give you a little head start, here are some small and big things that you could do on your own.
Go For A Walk
This is the easiest way to start. Put your favorite music or podcast on, and take a walk around your neighborhood or through your favorite park. The fresh air helps with nerves, and before you know it, you’ll actually start enjoying your own company.
Have A Mindful Evening At Home
I know this sounds like something everybody does on a regular basis, but it really is different if you mindfully plan it! Personally, I love to bake something fancy – just because. Turn on some fairy lights, and leave your phone in another room. Read a few chapters of a book, take a nice, long shower, do a face mask, and let yourself unwind. It’s your time of the day – no distractions, no agenda, just you.
Going To A Coffee Shop/ Restaurant
I’ve always loved going to restaurants solo – especially when I’m travelling – but weirdly, I still dread eating alone in my work cafeteria. It’s crowded, people I know might walk in… it just feels awkward.
If you feel the same, here are some small tips: grab a late-morning coffee or get an early lunch at a spot your already like. I love people-watching, so sitting right by the window is always a good place to start with. If you feel uncomfortable at first, don’t reach for your phone immediately. Sit with the feeling and ask yourself why it feels weird. Notice the room. Is anyone actually paying attention to you? Probably not – they’re wrapped up in their own daily struggles. Once you get past those first few minutes, you’ll realize dining solo isn’t scary at all — it’s freeing.
Plan A Fun Activity Outside Your Comfort Zone
This one’s the boldest – but also the most rewarding. Do something you love or try something new, no explanations needed. You might even meet people who share your new found interests!
Here are some ideas:
- Visit a bookstore and maybe even join their book club
- Join a sports club or fitness class – I joined a swim team, but you can always go for a run club, yoga, pilates, tennis, anything really
- Try a creative workshop – Â crocheting, cooking, or writing
- Pack a solo picnic and enjoy the last bits of sunshine before winter hits
- Go to the cinema alone (seriously it’s dark anyway, no one knows you’re by yourself)
Final Thoughts
Solo dating is not just simply spending time on your own – it’s finding out who you are. You’ll learn what makes you happy – on a small scale and on a big scale. You’ll find out what you want to spend your time with and what you value. So grab your headphones, book that table for one, and treat yourself to some quality you time. You deserve it.