Embrace Solitude: 10 Fun Solo Dates and Tips to Get Comfortable Being Alone

Are you single, getting FOMO seeing your mutuals post about their bae, or stalking your ex on social media? (don't lie, we've all been there), In a relationship but lost your sense of identity? Perhaps you just simply want to embark on the journey of self-discovery. Whatever your situation may be, let's embrace this solo journey together. As someone who would struggle to find time alone, I understand how comforting it can be to have some quiet time to oneself. It not only helps us feel more confident navigating the world, but it can also help us cultivate a deeper relationship with ourselves. But let's be honest, as someone whose made friends with anxiety, it can be scary putting yourself out there. there are many benefits to becoming your own best friend, such as:

-Learning to trust yourself

-Honoring your worth, not letting anyone disrespect you

-Showing yourself compassion

-You'll also show up as a better friend and partner to those around you.

With all of this being said, I've included some tips that's worked for me to help ease myself out of my shell. Remember everyones experience is unique, but this is what worked for me to ease myself into the "solo experience"

Tip #1 To begin with, I found myself in a stagnant place after transitioning jobs and moving into my first apartment. I realized that I needed to make a change and started by creating a routine for myself. My fitness was a major goal, and I wanted to take care of both my physical and mental health by gaining muscle and improving my overall fitness.

I started with home workouts in my living room, the occasional runs around the neighborhood, and I researched fitness gurus online by educating myself on how to use the machines at the gym and although I struggled with anxiety, I pushed myself to hit the gym, and it was a huge milestone for me!

My fitness journey is forever ebbing and flowing, but I am proud of myself for developing a consistent habit. I even considered becoming a personal trainer. I felt like a beginner at first and was intimidated by the machines, overcoming this obstacle gave me the confidence to believe in myself because if the next person can do it, why can't I? Tip #2

This may be a big step for some, but try a solo vacation! I booked a solo vacation for 2 days at the cutest A-frame Airbnb on the Oregon Coast to have the experience of traveling alone. To be honest, I didn't even have much of an itinerary! I knew that most of my time would be spent enjoying the cabin and walking along the beach with myself. The only thing I went out of my way for was this AMAZING hiking trail called the Cascade Head Trail. Along the way, I found myself at Devils PunchBowl. Here's some personalized content from my trip!

Tip #3 Listen, mustering up the courage to get out there can be intimidating. If you're struggling to find the courage to start your healing journey alone, there are a few activities that can help. Meditation and journaling are excellent ways to start. You don't need to be an expert writer, and you can do it from anywhere. You can even use your phone's voice memos for talk therapy. Initially, I was intimidated by the idea of meditation, thinking that it had to be a perfect practice with complete silence. However, meditation is whatever you make it, and it's normal to have thoughts. The idea is to sit with your thoughts and let them pass through. Personally, I'm not the greatest at being able to meditate so I took up this new activity; Sensory Deprivation Floating. It can be a bit pricey, and honestly outside of my comfort zone but as someone who struggles with stress and anxiety; and also gets distracted very easily... it forced me away from all these distractions, and calmed my mind. Remember, being alone is not for everyone, but having a good relationship with yourself is essential. If you're scared to be alone, take it slow and be patient with yourself. Embrace the journey and let yourself grow!

Ease into it however you feel comfortable, and have fun.

Below, I've included 10 solo date ideas you could try for yourself to tap into your own energy: 1. Have a chill night in Grab yourself some snacks (maybe even some tasty wine if you're a wine gal), run a candlelit bath with your favorite music and nightcap with your favorite movie. Solo dates don't have to be about going out all the time, treat yourself to some relaxing self care!

2. Go to a local coffee shop

If you know me, cafe hopping is one my most favorite activities. Grab your favorite book, a journal, your laptop and enjoy the ambience of sitting inside a cafe while you sip on your latte.

3. Take your camera or phone for a photoshoot day

Feeling lost with your creativity? Need more pictures for your Instagram feed? Dress up and go out and tap into your inner artist and taking pictures of anything that you find interesting! 4. Picnic at the park I live in the PNW where the sun is only out 3 months out of the year, so I take advantage of the vitamin D by laying out a blanket on the grass to sun tan. Bring snacks and play your favorite music!

5. Go for a long drive

Drive through neighborhoods manifesting your dream home, or simply play your favorite music as you drive through a scenic route. This for sure is the best and easiest way to sit with your own energy.

6. Plan a shopping date! Retail therapy cures all Grab your coffee, put your headphones in, and whether you thrift or love the mall you deserve to treat yourself! I think this might the best way to ease yourself into being alone because not only do you not have someone hovering over your shoulder while you shop, building mounds of anxiety over you to hurry up, you can take all the time you need to find the best pieces.

7. Book a dinner date Although it's a romantic dream, you don't need to wait for someone else to take you out on the town when your sitting with yourself right now! Get dressed up, and book a reservation to your favorite restaurant, the confidence you feel afterward is astounding. 8. Go for a hike It's a great way to tap into your spirituality. You can start out walking your neighborhood, put your headphones in and just enjoy the present moment. Keep doing this and soon you can tackle a larger trail alone. One of my favorite trails I've done by myself is Rowena Crest. There's just something so special about being surrounded by complete silence with your own thoughts. 9. Plan a "do nothing" day Sometimes you might not even have the energy to do a single thing, and it's ok to take a break and recharge every now and then. Do whatever feels right in the moment, whether thats death scrolling on TikTok or cooking a new meal for yourself, let yourself indulge in whatever feels good, without being your own worst enemy. 10. Try a new activity or hobby. Attend your local farmers market and try something new, book an art class, or try a dance class. Get outside of your comfort zone, its not as scary as you think! Conclusion: Whether you're someone who is single, married, or dating, embracing the solo journey can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It allows you to discover who you are and what you want out of life without the distraction of others. By taking time to focus on yourself, you create a stronger sense of independence and self-confidence, which will positively impact all aspects of your life! Remember, everyone is on their own journey, it's okay to take things at your own pace. Start small, step outside of your comfort zone, and believe in yourself! The journey may not always be easy, but it will undoubtedly be worth it. So, take that leap, and embrace your solo journey!