Why you should “date” yourself first
By the time you reach your 60s and beyond, you’ve got a fair few experiences under your belt – you’ve dated, you’ve been in a couple relationships and you’ve likely been married. It’s why jumping in the dating pool can seem so daunting – there’s a past you simply can’t forget whether you want to or not. And it doesn’t help when the first foray back into dating is generally not the best. But don’t be put off forever, maybe the antidote you need is to “date” yourself first.
It might seem like a strange concept but when you “date” yourself – when you invest time, energy and money into yourself, you are rewarded with a better understanding and love for yourself. Often when we’re single after decades of a relationship, we might not know ourselves as well as we once did. Taking the time to “date” yourself is a way of reconnecting with yourself and rediscovering who you are and what makes you a wonderful person, a person that anybody would be lucky to date! If you still need convincing, here are five more reasons why “dating” yourself is worth it.
Gets you out of your comfort zone – If you want to go see the latest movie in the cinema but not gone simply because you couldn’t find someone, just go by yourself! Don’t stop doing activities you like because you can’t find company, go by yourself and enjoy your own company. It’s not about sitting home alone bored but actively planning and pursuing activities and interests you like. And don’t even think about cancelling – after all, you wouldn’t stand up a date!
Happiness starts from within – Of course, a love one enhances happiness but a relationship shouldn’t be solely responsible for your happiness. Making that effort to do things you love and makes you happy will show you that you don’t need anyone else to live a happy and fulfilling life. If someone does come along, it’s great to share that happiness but it’s not a requisite!
Know yourself better – Now you have all these “dates” planned with yourself just think how much more you can discover yourself. When you get out of your comfort zone, you’ll be surprised what else will interest you. Don’t be afraid to try new things and strike up a conversation with the coffee shop girl or that other dog owner!
Feel better about yourself – When you actively value and care for yourself – just like you would if you do for someone else in a relationship – your self-esteem and self-worth will increase. Learn to value your strengths and experiences and don’t dwell on weaknesses or struggles. It helps form healthy relationships down the track because you know what you deserve and won’t settle for.
How to be independent – Dating yourself teaches you to enjoy alone time and be independent – remember just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. Also when we spend time by ourselves we better develop our own opinions, passions, goals and memories.
Related link: Signs that you are ready to date