As a young person, it can be easy to get caught up in the fast-paced world of social media and constantly being surrounded by friends. But what happens when you’re left with just yourself? For some of us, the thought of spending time alone can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, taking yourself out on a solo date can be a great way to learn to love and appreciate your own company.

I was always one of those who found it boring to go out alone. I would never be caught dead alone at the movies, at the beach or anywhere else. But then, I decided to challenge myself and head out on a solo date. A solo date is essentially going out, just you, and doing something you’ve always wanted. It could be going to a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try or buying a new pair of shoes, but essentially just being by yourself, doing something you enjoy. The idea of a solo date is not to take away from a relationship with your partner or friends but to be more content with who you are.

I’ll admit the idea of a solo date was challenging. My idea of fun is reading a good book, sitting by a fire or just being in bed and watching a series. Surprisingly, cleaning takes me to my happy place as well. But I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.

Solo date: Pass or fail?

My solo date plan was to go to the movies and shop to buy myself something nice. However, I didn’t like the idea of being in the movies alone, so I went with the shopping idea instead. Even though I know the concept is silly, considering that in a movie theatre, you don’t speak to someone, just having someone close to me keeps me at ease.

Shopping on my own was fun, and I got to take my time, but I missed having the opinion of a friend who would say, “Oh, that would look good on you.” After walking around the mall, I did some basic errand shopping for groceries and headed to KFC for Zinger wings. Eating alone was not as bad as I expected, although I felt somewhat self-conscious about if people were looking at me. But I soon realised that no one cared about what I was doing.

If I had to score, I’d give myself a 70% because I went shopping and ate out on my own. I’m proud of myself.

Here are a few solo date ideas:

• So, here are a few solo date ideas that you can try:
• Visit a coffee shop: Take a book or a journal to a local coffee shop and enjoy a latte while you read or write.
• Try a new restaurant or food market. Entry to most food markets is free, and many vendors offer free samples, so explore and savour new cuisine.
• Explore a local park: Visit a nearby park and take a stroll to enjoy the scenery and fresh air; just be sure it’s not too isolated, as your safety should always be your top priority.
• Have a picnic: Pack snacks or a light meal from home and head to a nearby park or beach for a relaxing solo picnic.
• Learn something new: Watch a tutorial or take an online course to learn a new skill, like drawing or coding – there are many free courses – enquire at your local library.
• Visit a library: Spend the day at the library, reading your favourite books or discovering new ones. Visit a library that has a beautiful setting.
• Listen to a podcast or audiobook: You can find many free podcasts and audiobooks online or through apps like Spotify or Audible. Find a local wifi hotspot and download it free!
• Go to a museum or art gallery that you may have always wanted to go to. Many offer free, open days, so check your community noticeboards.
• Be a tourist in your city! Visit places you always wanted to go to.

Remember, the point of a solo date is to have fun and enjoy your own company. You don’t need to spend money to have a good time or treat yourself. Get creative, try something new, and have fun!

Embrace the opportunity to spend time with yourself and enjoy your own company. Don’t wait for someone else to take you out or make plans for you. You are your own best friend, and it’s up to you to prioritise your happiness and well-being. 

Here’s to more solo dates and the joy of discovering yourself along the way!

Read more here on how love is not blind. 

Tell us: What solo dates would you take yourself out on?