take yourself on a date
In a world where things move way too fast, rancor and partisan issues divide the globe, and sometimes living in conflict is easier than working to a compromise, things can be overwhelming. Especially now when we’re torn apart physically and emotionally by a lethal virus, we’re only just now starting to come out of, it can feel lonely and isolating. It’s more important now than ever to appreciate yourself and know your worth. So, I urge you to take yourself on a date.
The greatest part about taking yourself on a date is not worrying about anyone else but yourself. You focus on what you want to do and how you want to do it. You don’t have to balance what someone else wants versus what you want to eat, to do, to see, or to experience.
Order Postmates and sleep on the couch? You’ve got it.
Get brunch and spend the rest of the day shopping? Done.
Read in the park? Absolutely.
Reality TV until you can’t see straight? Yup.
Doing this is honestly one of the most liberating and fulfilling practices. It gives you a chance to have fun by yourself, discover the things you love, and spend time finding joy in the little moments. We spend so much of our lives worrying. We worry about school, work, family, friends, body image, bosses, spouses, social media, mental health, physical health, our social life; you name it, we worry about it. That’s why it’s so important to take a step away from that feeling and enjoy yourself.
This might feel self-indulgent or selfish. At times when I’m taking myself out for a coffee with a book and blanket in hand to set up at the park, I feel like I should be working. I should be doing schoolwork, formatting spreadsheets for my boss, cleaning my room, etc. However, it’s important to remember that taking moments or days like this for yourself allow you to be more fully present when needed. It’s necessary to take moments for self reflection and rest. You can only run on empty for so long. Sometimes you just need to rest.
In that, we often feel like we have to justify why we need to rest. There’s this mentality that rest and recharging isn’t productive; that it’s a waste of time or a sign or weakness. You should never have to justify to yourself or to anyone else why you need a moment to be centered and find your grounding. It’s absurd that anyone would think they are entitled to an explanation for your well-earned time off.
So challenge yourself to go on a date with the sexiest person in the world, you. At the end of the day, you can only be your best self if you love who you are without question. Never justify your needs. Have fun hottie!
