I love solo dates. As much as I enjoy staying home as a homebody and spending time out with my besties, there’s something especially fulfilling about going out alone. Of course, it comes with a few personal criteria. It has to be quieter, less crowded places, and spots where I can indulge in my hobbies.
Over time, I’ve realised there are so many benefits to taking myself out on solo dates and here are a few reasons why I love them.
Move at my own pace
On solo dates, there’s no pressure to keep up with anyone else’s energy, schedule, or preferences. I can linger in a cafe longer than planned, leave a place early if it feels overwhelming, or spend an entire afternoon on one activity without feeling guilty. Everything happens on my terms, and that freedom feels incredibly grounding.
Make my own decisions
Once again, when I’m out with people, I have to make compromises. While I enjoy shared moments, there are times when I simply want to do my own thing without adjusting to anyone else. Solo dates give me that freedom. I get to explore life my way, making choices for myself.
Understand my preferences and boundaries
When I make my own decisions, I start to understand myself better. I get to know what I genuinely enjoy, what drains me, and what I’m simply not interested in. Without external influence or the need to accommodate others, my likes and dislikes become clearer. I learn how much social interaction I’m comfortable with, the environments I thrive in, and when I need to step back and recharge.
Be more intentional with my time
Going out on solo dates encourages me to be more mindful about how I spend my time. Instead of defaulting to doomscrolling or oversleeping, I intentionally plan outings that feel nourishing and purposeful. Whether it’s just going out for lunch, visiting a cafe, or spending time on my hobbies, I’m choosing experiences that add value to my day, making it more balanced and fulfilled.
Indulge in my hobbies without judgement
I can sit quietly in a cafe with my favourite games and word searches, or just wander around and soak in the ambience. There is no pressure from being self conscious, since there are no judgements and expectations. It’s just me and the things that make me happy.
So those are a few benefits of going on solo dates, that fit into my slow and simple lifestyle. Some days, I’m intentional and productive at home, but on unmotivated days, my subconscious mind might fall back into doomscrolling, oversleeping, or drift through the day on autopilot. On those days, going on a solo date pulls me back, reminding me to slow down and be present.