As a newly single young lady getting out of a five-year-long relationship, I must say, I expected my single life to look far different than what COVID-19 had in mind. I was expecting to be tearing up the dance floor with my girlfriends three nights a week and getting butterflies before going on dates with cute new boys. I expected to be able to pack up everything and buy as many plane tickets as my Mastercard would allow, to visit all the places I’ve dreamt of exploring. These single-life expectations, however, are vastly different than my current reality, but I’ve learned that’s okay! It doesn’t mean I have to sit at home and dwell, and if you’re in a similar situation to mine, you shouldn’t either! Based on personal experience, I have put together a list of ways to keep busy and happy throughout isolation, to avoid boredom and to make the most of the single life in 2020.
1. Discover a new hobby
Use your new free time to try something new! You may discover a passion for something you didn’t know that you had, or perhaps you’ll find a hidden talent you never knew about. Dust off that Rubik’s cube on your shelf and master the puzzle, or break out grandma’s knitting needles and make all of your friends matching scarves! It doesn’t matter if it is a new skill or a skill you’ve long forgotten about, there is no better time to give it your all!
2. Create some healthy habits
Being single during isolation is the perfect opportunity to start putting some energy towards building some healthy habits. Start jogging or going on walks daily. Break out the yoga mat you have in the back of your closet. Give meditation a try. Start a vitamin regimen. Try pole-dancing, boxing, fencing – anything! You finally have the chance to devote as much time as you want to become your healthiest version of yourself, so embrace it! Whatever energy you were giving away to other people can now be wholly invested into you and your mental, emotional and physical well-being.
3. Meet new people (virtually)
Since the pandemic makes it rather difficult (and unsafe) to go out and meet people, try taking advantage of the various dating platforms available online. By no means do you need to find your husband/wife/life partner, but it can be a lot of fun to get to know different people and learn about their lives while they learn about yours! There is no harm in forming new connections and having interesting conversations with new people. If something comes out of it, great! If not, you hopefully met a cool new friend and were given a wonderful little peek into someone’s life.
4. Strengthen the current relationships in your life
If talking to strangers on the internet isn’t really your cup of tea, then use this free time as an opportunity to strengthen the relationships you already have. Take some time to tell the ones you love how much you appreciate them. Call your grandparents and fill them in on your life. Help your mom with dinner and ask about her day. Watch television with your dad and get him talking about ‘the good ole days’. Have your siblings teach you all about their favourite things. Spend some time brainstorming an amazing birthday present for your best friend. Anything! Using your newly found free time to show the ones you love that you do will never be time wasted.
There’s no denying that the current state of the world has put a temporary delay on newly single bar-hopping with besties, or split-second jet-setting, but, personally, I still have thoroughly enjoyed filling my single life with the things I love most during isolation. It is a quieter and more subdued single life, but one still full of happiness, love and support from those around me, as well as love towards myself.