The idea of “dating yourself” may sound like some sort of obscure, new-agey advice that would come from that eccentric barista who works at your local coffee shop, but it could actually be one of the most liberating things you do for yourself this year.

If you step back and think about it, dating yourself contains all the fun that goes into an enjoyable date – without the pressure of wondering how it was for the other person or whether you’ll ever hear from them again.

TRYING SOMETHING NEW

One of the biggest perks of dating is discovering new activities. You can’t really know if you like something until you try it.

It may not always be the easiest thing to go somewhere new and try something different all by yourself; but who was it that said “do one thing every day that scares you?” I think it was Eleanor Rosevelt. So, drive to that ski resort and give it a go all on your own! Make a list of things you’ve always dreamed of trying but you never thought to try alone, like sailing lessons or a paint night. And sign yourself up.

If it’s a class, that’s becomes a weekly date with yourself. You’ll probably learn to appreciate the consistency and reliability, and it will be something to look forward to. And who knows, when that perfect date comes along you just might be able to introduce them to your latest hobby!

TREAT YOURSELF

Is your skin dry? Has it been forever (and a day) since you last got a haircut? Do you wish you had a bigger botty? Set some dates to pamper yourself. Whether it’s by starting a new squat series at the gym or getting a steamer and doing mini-facials at home. Listen to your favorite music and wear something that makes you feel good while you’re doing it. A “date” with yourself can really can be this simple.

If there’s a new restaurant in town that’s blowing up Yelp and all your girlfriends are being flaky about going, take yourself! There’s a good chance that your fears of being spotted dining alone by someone you know are way less likely to happen than you think. Plus, it can’t hurt to be the first of your friends to Instagram their famous lavender custard, right?

GET BACK TO THE BASICS

Another thing you could do is get back in touch with the things you used to love. If you played soccer as a kid but haven’t kicked around a ball in what feels like centuries,  go buy a new pair of cleats and find an intramural team to play with! You never know how well your old skills will kick in again (pun intended).

Like anything else in life, dating is a process of trial and error. By learning what you love to do most, you’re setting yourself up for dating success in the future. And doing what you love is fun – remember that!

Dating yourself teaches you to be good at being on your own. And in turn, when you love/like yourself, you’re more ready to love/like someone else. So get out there and explore yourself and the world.

Then when you are good and ready, go find a friend to date before you start actually dating. Download the Hey! VINA app and see who’s out there.

(Feature image via Garnet News)