It's easy to get into a rut of thinking that we must have "someone to hang out with" to have fun. But sometimes that someone should be ourselves. I told a friend how I loved going to matinee's by myself. She was shocked and asked if it was uncomfortable. I said the first time it felt a little weird but I really enjoyed it because I could pick whatever movie I wanted without complaints and it felt as though I was tucked away from the world for awhile. She decided to do it and told me later she LOVED it!
I think sometimes we get so wrapped up in others that we forget we're fun, by ourselves, on our own. We think there must be that plus one, instead of just one.
I started thinking about this when I read about artist dates. And while I love the concept of that, maybe not everyone is looking to fill their empty artist tank. But I do think it's important to realize we can have fun alone. Not to sound narcissistic, I don't mean to cut out relationships altogether, but just once in awhile to take a little time away.
Here are some ideas of dates with yourself:
1. See a movie.
2. Swing at a park.
3. Go to a museum.
4. Swim at the neighborhood pool.
5. Take a long bath.
6. Read a good book in the sunshine.
7. Visit a flower garden.
8. Go fishing.
9. Feed ducks at a pond.
10. Go out to eat at your favorite restaurant.
Seriously, don't be afraid of this. You might find out you enjoy the quiet, the solitude, the time to reflect and drink in the world around you.
Have you ever had a date with yourself?