Solo Dating Dos and Don’ts

Solo dating isn’t as complex as it may seem with these simple dos and don’ts. They’re easy to follow, and honestly all you need to dive in and go on your first solo date. 

Dos:

do Plan Ahead

• Choose a venue or activity you genuinely enjoy, or something new that’s been on your to do list for a long time.
• Make reservations (if necessary) to avoid disappointment. There’s nothing more annoying than arriving at your solo date destination only to find out they’re fully booked, trust me!

do Dress Comfortably

• Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. I usually like to get all dolled up as if I were on a date with someone else, but go with whatever your personal preference is! 

do Stay Safe

• Share your plans with a friend or family member. You can even share your live location as an extra precaution, especially if your solo date involves going out late at night and traveling alone on public transport or in cabs.
• If you’re out at night, make sure you stay in well-lit, public areas. 

do Be Present

•  Put away your phone to really immerse yourself in the experience. I like to put my phone on DND so I don’t get distracted by any notifications. If I do have any idle time, I bring out my notebook instead!

do Reflect

• Take some time to journal or think about what you enjoyed and learned from the experience. This solo dating journal may just be the perfect fit!

DO Relax and Enjoy

• Allow yourself to have fun and enjoy your own company without any pressure. It can sometimes take a moment to settle into a new environment (if solo dating away from home) and feel comfortable, so give yourself some time to adjust! I sometimes feel a little self-conscious when doing activities away from home traditionally considered something you should do with others, but that feeling quickly disappears as I begin focusing on me and not what I think others may think of me.
• Treat yourself whenever the opportunity arises – and that doesn’t mean spend a crazy amount of money! I currently have an obsession with Biscoff blondies and white chocolate cookie dough, so if I discover any food place selling these during one of my solo dates, I’m making the purchase! 

Don’ts:

Don’t Overplan

• Leave some room for spontaneity. If you over-schedule, you might feel rushed or stressed out. I plan the activity a whole, but set aside time to see where the solo date takes me. Sometimes this has look like a quick trip to another local spot, other times it has looked like the long route back home with my AirPods in, taking in some music therapy. 

Don’t Worry About Judgement

• Most people are too busy with their own lives to notice you’re on a solo date. And if they do notice, they definitely don’t care (unless they’re inspired, or not a fan because they’re a big weirdo!) Forget what everyone else thinks and embrace the freedom and confidence that comes with learning to  be on your own.

Don’t Isolate Completely

• If you’re on a solo date away from home, it’s okay to chat with someone, but only if you want to! Engage in small talk with a worker, server or fellow visitor, knowing that it could flourish into an amazing new conversation and connection worth keeping. 

Don’t Ignore Your Budget

• While treating yourself is important, ensure that your plans are within your financial means. As tempting as it may be, let’s not go into debt dating ourselves, please!