Date Yourself!

Have you ever heard of the term ‘date yourself’? If you haven’t, let me introduce you to it! Many times, when we think about dating, we are only thinking about our love lives and dating other people. What happens if you’re single? Shouldn’t you still date yourself? Even if you’re in a committed relationship or married, you should still date yourself, and by date yourself, I mean LOVE YOURSELF.

Loving yourself relates to putting your self-care and self-love first. There are so many ways to prioritize yourself, and dating yourself is a great way to start! Romanticize everything you can about your day-to-day activities. Start to do for yourself the very same things you would do for your significant other.

WHY IS DATING YOURSELF IMPORTANT?

Dating yourself encourages self-love and self-confidence. You boost your self-esteem when you treat yourself with attention and care. You are worthy of love and respect! Doing this will only spread the love and respect you’ll feel for yourself in all other areas of your life. You will be and feel so independent. I personally feel as though if I can enjoy my own company, that will make me find happiness within myself, and I won’t rely on others for a sense of well-being. I know this will make you feel the same! Making time for myself also encourages personal growth. We must continue growing throughout our lives, and pouring into ourselves is one of the best ways to do it. When you’re alone with yourself, you start to experience self-awareness by understanding your own needs, thoughts, feelings, goals, and what truly makes you feel fulfilled.

WAYS YOU CAN DATE YOURSELF

The ways that I have dated myself so far are going out for a meal, taking walks, reading books, and journaling. Those are the things I do on a regular basis. I like to treat myself to a meal by dining alone at a restaurant and buying something to eat that I don’t normally buy but love so much! I also like to people-watch while doing it! My go-to meals are either steak fajitas, surf n turd, or just a good filet mignon. I love to take walks when it is cooler out, specifically early in the morning or at night. Just make sure you are in a safe area, have safety tools with you, and are cognizant of your surroundings. Gym time, yoga, or Pilates, even at home, if you find these activities relaxing, are more great options.

There are so many ways that I have not tried yet but want to try so bad! Here is a list of ideas that we all need to try:

VISIT A MUSEUM OR ART GALLERY

I personally am not a museum or art gallery person, sadly, but I think this could be great for so many people. You could certainly take time to appreciate the exhibits and learn something new.

GO TO THE MOVIES OR THEATER SHOW

Attending a movie or theater by yourself would give you the advantage of enjoying it without distractions! I have never done this, but I know I would enjoy it.

TAKE A HIKE

This allows you to spend peaceful time in nature on a trail, in a park, or a botanical garden. This is a wonderful way to clear your mind. I am too scared these days to be in the woods alone, but I do want to try!

ATTEND A CLASS OR WORKSHOP

Make sure the class or workshop interests YOU! You can take classes such as cooking, painting, dancing, yoga, whatever. I would try baking or cooking first.

HAVE A SPA DAY

This is a good way to pamper yourself! Get a facial or another treatment that will help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

READ A BOOK AT A CAFÉ

Pick a nice and cozy café, possibly while enjoying your favorite tea or coffee. I have done this at a bookstore before, so that works too!

TRAVEL ALONE

You can start with a weekend getaway or plan a longer solo trip if you’re brave. I have not tried this yet, but I can only imagine how empowering and liberating this experience must be!

COOK A SPECIAL MEAL

As many times as I have cooked myself a meal, I have never romanticized it! You can try a new recipe or cook your favorite dish, set the table nicely, maybe light some candles, and create a pleasant dining experience.

ENGAGE IN A HOBBY

Nothing beats spending time doing something you love! Examples may be gardening, crafting, playing an instrument, or whatever brings you joy. I have done this and didn’t even realize I was taking part in my self-care in that way.

EXPLORE YOUR CITY

Be a tourist in your own city! Explore new neighborhoods, visit landmarks, and discover hidden gems.

I wanted the perspective of a man, so I asked my partner Kaddy what he would do to date himself. He said he would either go to the park and play ball by himself, go to the beach, go for a walk, sit in his car, or go to his mancave to sit and relax. I liked those ideas and decided to include them.

I hope these ideas and tips help you start dating yourself!

• J