Picture this: festive lights are incandescent in the month of November, and you are sitting all dolled up at a fancy hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur… at a table for one. The rumours are true – in this era where some say that having a boyfriend is embarrassing, we are embracing and celebrating this Single’s Day.
It may be Single’s Day, but taking yourself out on a solo date should not be just a yearly occasion. Finding joy in your own company is crucial to being more content and self-aware of the relationships surrounding you. We have curated a guide to honour this day in the name of self-love.
Benefits of a solo date
There are a few advantages in taking yourself out. No matter the duration of the date – a few minutes to a few hours – here are the benefits when you create time and space for yourself.
1. Better self-relationship: Just like other relationships, self-love is nurtured over repeated actions. The same way friendship bonds over quality time, a bond with yourself is also enriched by showering yourself with extra love.
2. Being your own company: Being comfortable with your own company provides a sense of security, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.
3. Learn more about yourself: This is how you can discover what you enjoy and what you don’t – without the fear of getting judged by others.
Do’s and don’ts of a solo date
We have just said that solo dates can decrease your fear of being judged. However, there are still a few rules that you can comply with for you to enjoy your day for one better.
1. Do what you like: There are an abundance of things you can do on a solo date. However, make sure you will truly enjoy them. Everybody has different preferences, so stick to your classic ‘go-tos’!
2. Focus on your love language: Do you like physical touch, quality time, or words of affirmation? Whatever your preferred expression of love may be, indulge in activities according to what you favour. For example, if you like acts of service, pamper yourself with a massage or a manicure. You’ll also experience a sense of empowerment!
3. Prioritise yourself: Some might see self-care as a negotiable concept, but think of yourself as a dear friend – would you break a promise to a loved one? Of course you won’t. Don’t do it to yourself either!
Planning a solo date
Getting ready for a solo date may bring about mixed feelings. But just like any other date, focus on getting the basic steps done before seeing how it turns out. Let’s tick off a few boxes when planning the solo date.
- Availability: A perfect date starts with… a perfect date. Choose a suitable date for you by taking the day off, or you can also invest in spending more time on the weekends to feel more relaxed.
- Choose activities: The possibilities of things for you to do are endless – from challenging activities like hiking at the break of dawn to laid-back experiences like a nice hotel dinner. Our only recommendation is to try and keep the date outside rather than staying in or at-home dates.
- Get dressed: Dress up, and do your hair and makeup! Putting on nice clothes can boost your dose of confidence – whatever that may look like for you.
Getting comfortable with solo dates
A solo date is one of the tools you can use to be kinder to yourself. Using a third-party perspective, such as by treating yourself the way you would a friend, nurtures self-trust and a sense of appreciation of your own company. It is also the perfect time to disconnect from others, enjoy the present moment, and ponder on life. The next step is to keep it consistent.
For restaurant ideas for your solo date, click here.