Dating yourself doesn't mean finding a partner who is exactly like you or shares your interests. So, what does “dating yourself” mean? Dating yourself means doing things that make you happy and are just for you. This could be spending time with friends, family, or alone. The most important thing is discovering who you are as an individual by doing things you love. If you're not sure what you love to do, don't worry! This guide will help you figure it out, but it might take some exploring on your part.
Now, let's get into it! Here are some ways to date yourself:
1. Spending time with family/friends – If you enjoy being with others and it brings you joy, that's great! Friends and family are meant to bring you happiness and are essential in learning to date yourself. Remember that you also need some alone time, and there should be a balance between personal time and time with family and friends.
2. Solo activities – Don't be afraid to go out alone! If there's a movie you've been wanting to see, a concert you want to experience, or a restaurant you've been wanting to try, go for it. You can also try playing bingo, bowling, ice skating, mini golf, and enjoy being in your own space.
3. Pampering yourself – There are many ways to pamper yourself! Take a bath, get a massage, use a face mask, go for a walk or hike, go to the gym, buy new clothing, get a haircut, or have a manicure or pedicure.
4. Trying new experiences – Is there a hobby you enjoy or something you've always wanted to try? Now is the time to do it! Develop the skill you've been wanting to work on and learn something new. Here are some common activities you can learn and do on your own:
- Painting
- Pottery
- Video games
- Reading books
- Dance classes
- Cooking class
- Glass blowing
- Crochet
- Photography
- Musical instruments
- Origami
- And more!
There are many things you can learn to do and develop a new hobby. If you don't want to go alone, you can always bring a friend, but you'll learn a lot more when you go by yourself!
5. Considering the 5 Love Languages – Do you know what the love languages are? These are often more noticeable within a relationship, but you can learn to love and date yourself in all these languages.
- Words of Affirmation – Write love letters to yourself, recognize your achievements, be proud of yourself, and never doubt yourself. Tell yourself how much you love yourself and indulge in self-love!
- Quality Time – Enjoy time to yourself doing whatever you like. You can stay away from social media and be in your own headspace. You can learn a lot about yourself by being with yourself.
- Acts of Service – Perform your own acts of service! Vacuum your space, organize your closet and clothes, get rid of old things that are never used, and clean up your space!
- Receiving gifts – Buy yourself gifts! You can buy flowers, games, candles, and other things that make you happy!
- Physical touch – Give yourself a massage, scalp scrub, and do daily stretching to be in tune with your body!
And lastly….
6. IGNORING SOCIETY – Many of us are so focused on what others think and the expectations society imposes on us. If we limit ourselves to what society wants, we will ignore our individual wants and needs. Do what makes you happy, especially if it feels right to you!
I hope this guide has helped you get ideas for dating yourself! The goal is to be happy and find yourself!
Author: Jenna Reed, Intern
Clear Counseling LLC.
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