Date Yourself: How Solo Dates Can Transform Your Life
For those of you who have been following me, you know I’m a huge advocate of taking yourself out on a date. And I don’t just mean for single people—I’m talking about those in relationships, too. Solo dates are an absolute necessity, and here’s why.
Think about this: isn’t it so nice when you or your partner plans an evening filled with all your favorite things—a delicious meal, your favorite movie, a little dessert run, all those thoughtful details? Yet when it comes to taking ourselves out on a solo date, we sometimes think it’s weird or unnecessary. Doing these thoughtful things for a partner feels completely normal, but doing them for ourselves? Out of the question.
It reminds me of the saying, “If you wouldn’t say something cruel to a friend, why would you say it to yourself?”
See where I’m going with this?
A solo date is so much more than dinner and a movie. It’s an act of self-love. It’s a promise to yourself that you’ll take care of you, because at the end of the day, you’re responsible for your own happiness.
I’ve reached a place where I love when someone shows up for me — but I no longer rely on it. I can take myself out, treat myself well, and create moments that make me feel alive. Anything someone else does is just a bonus, not the foundation.
Even as I’m writing this, I’m thinking about a recent solo date I treated myself to at the Silobration in Waco, Texas. As a long-time Joanna Gaines fan, I was beyond excited—it was my first time at the event, and honestly, I knew it was going to be therapeutic (spoiler: it was). I wandered the Silos, soaked in all the little details, and really allowed myself to be present. And yes… I may have spent a little more than I intended. Nothing shocking there—I always end up buying more than planned when I treat myself—but it was so worth it. There’s just something about showing up fully for yourself, even if it comes with a few extra souvenirs and a slightly lighter wallet.
And now, I can already feel myself getting excited about the next solo dates I’m planning. There’s something grounding about creating experiences for yourself—no schedule to match, no pressure, just you choosing what feels good.
Here are just a few reasons why solo dates are a must:
They’re the perfect opportunity to learn more about yourself and really discover what you love (which also helps your partner when the time comes!).
They’re a declaration to the universe that you love yourself and can fill your own cup. You can’t fully love someone else until you deeply love yourself.
Life is short—and in relationships, it’s easy to lose track of who we are. Solo dates help you reconnect with YOU and what lights you up.
Now, I know some of you might be thinking that going out alone sounds scary. And you’re not wrong—it can feel awkward at first. But once you get past that first solo date, it becomes easier, more enjoyable, and something you’ll actually look forward to.
If it’s your very first time, start simple and familiar. Maybe it’s just an hour at your favorite coffee shop, or a Target run for some retail therapy. You don’t even have to spend money—check out free live music, explore a park, or if you’re an animal lover, spend time at a dog park soaking up the joy of other people’s pups. The key is intention: whatever you do, let it make you happy.
I hope this inspires you to take yourself out on a date and truly believe that you matter—that you deserve to be taken care of in the best way possible.
Wishing you an amazing week and happy solo dating!
—MM
