This is your Sign to Take Yourself on a Date
Writing date with myself
One of my favorite things as of late is taking myself out on a date. I love the quiet alone time it permits, a time dedicated solely to myself and my thoughts. In fact, I'm on a date right now as I write this! When I first started taking myself out it felt awkward, and honestly super uncomfortable. I was always worrying what other people would think of me sitting alone in a sometimes busy restaurant. Slowly though, these dates started to become a sacred and pivotal part of my weekly routine. Now I cherish the time to myself and who cares what others think! What's important is making yourself happy…
Treating yourself because YOU DESERVE IT
This little tradition started for me after my partner’s baby girl moved in with us. My quiet life quickly turned to chaotic days and weekends jam packed with adventures. Raising a six year old is no easy task. I found myself tired and in need of alone time, so I took myself to my favorite restaurant just to get away. I sat there with a glass of wine and enjoyed some peace and quiet. At first I felt guilty! Was I being selfish by not inviting my family? But you know what I realized, no, I deserved this little slice of peace! And you do too, don't let that little voice in your head tell you aren't worthy of treating yourself. You are worthy and you deserve it too!
Let go of anxiety and enjoy
At the beginning I used to feel so awkward sitting alone! Surrounded in a busy restaurant by crowds of people. Sometimes I even felt like I was taking up a table that could be used for more people, but that was self doubt trying to creep in. Ignore that and dine on! One thing that helped me get more comfortable being by my lonesome was chatting on the phone. It distracts you from the fact that you are alone which can be nice if you're feeling awkward.
Enjoying a day in the park by myself
Soon though I found myself relishing in the alone time. Bringing a book and sitting for an hour or two just getting lost in a good meal and my own mind. Now I make it an intentional part of my weekly routine, making sure to try a new restaurant every month. I love it! I find it a way to not only connect with myself but to celebrate the small things. Too often we forget about all the little accomplishments we achieve in a day. By taking yourself out it feels like a mini celebration, especially if you don't do it often. For me I enjoy it so much I never see myself giving up this practice.
Cheers!
So if you're not already convinced, get out there and take yourself on a date! Grab a coffee or go to a fancy restaurant, whatever it is, take some time to appreciate yourself and give yourself the date you deserve!