Ideal for those looking to work on themselves, keep busy or simply indulge.
Being single isn’t always easy, especially if everyone around you is in a relationship. Now that restrictions on socialising are easing and friends are reunited, the singletons among us are feeling a little left behind as couples meet up and form permitted groups of six for indoor dining, drinking and the rest.
If you’re feeling like the odd one out, then fear not; there are things you can do solo and proud to keep you occupied, entertained and out there. If you’re looking to work on yourself, keep busy or simply indulge, then here are 6 fun and constructive things to focus on when you’re single.
TRAVEL
There’s no denying that travel is good for the soul, broadening your horizons, diversifying your life experience, and opening up your social circle to all kinds of new opportunities. Doing so solo only serves to amplify these experiences, formatively and resolutely.
There are plenty of pros and fewer cons to operating unescorted, unburdened and unleashed, but this approach does demand a little know-how, a touch of streetwise sensibility. Let us direct you to our article on here are 10 IDEAL tips for getting the most out of solo travelling for some advice on doing just that.
DINE-SOLO
Once the preserve of the lonely business traveller, solo dining has come on leaps and bounds in recent years, and is now a very much cherished aspect of urban restaurant scenes from London to Tokyo, Hanoi to Barcelona and beyond.
In fact, a recent study conducted by Open Table revealed that the number of single-cover reservations had soared in the last two years, rising by 110%. If you’re single and not particularly ready to mingle, then dining solo can be one of the most enjoyable, enriching things you can do. What’s more, it makes securing a seat at some of the hottest restaurant tickets in town much easier!
We think that solo dining is without doubt best enjoyed sitting on a stool, at a bar, with an open kitchen to keep your eyes busy and a wall of sound keeping your ears entertained.
Remember if you over order, you can always take the rest home in a doggy bag and have a delightfully indulgent breakfast the next day. Result!
Read: 5 IDEAL restaurants to eat solo in Soho
FEEL GOOD ROUTINES & HABITS
Self care, feel good routines are a soothing balm for the soul, make no mistake, and can have far-reaching psychological benefits, from alleviating anxiety and stress, all the way to helping improve focus and concentration. At times, being single can be anxiety provoking (we’ve all been there). However, routines can provide an anchor of predictability.
According to Glamour, the daily habits of happily single people include looking for the best in themselves, starting the day right, leaning on friends and having hobbies (more of that later).
An effective morning ritual can consist of pretty much anything, from a small prayer, making the bed or just a few stretching exercises, to something more substantial like a heavy workout.
Another feel good routine often overlooked and under discussed is masturbation. The benefits of masturbation are plenty, with Glamour suggesting that “getting off can even help you get a better night’s sleep”. They go on to say that doing so each evening can offer similar benefits to meditation before bed. Well, we’re sold!
Even if it’s not meditative, a self pleasure routine can help you feel satisfied and fulfilled. The guys at Sinful, who stock over 290 different dildos, point out that embracing the ‘’playfulness that sex toys and erotic products can help create’’ can lead to you having a fulfilling sex life, even when doing things solo.
DEVELOP PERSONAL HOBBIES
Did you know that spending time alone is linked to an increase in creative thinking? This is because we are able to focus on our hobbies, interests and thoughts without distraction, and are able to experiment, explore and inquire free from the judgment of others.
For a self-actualising approach to your days spent solo, take the time to focus on your hobbies, or even pick up some new ones. We’ve written this handy guide to 5 hobbies IDEAL for challenging your curiosity which may well pique your interest and get your creative juices flowing.
BECOME A REGULAR SOMEWHERE
If you’re craving a little banter, repartee and platonic intimacy, then you’ll know that sometimes as a singleton it can be hard to find. A wonderful way to nourish that side of your soul is to become a regular somewhere. Find a spot that you love, whether it be a cafe, cocktail bar, the ‘club’ at the gym, beauty salon or or even a library, and give it your patronage regularly. In doing so, you’ll find like minded people who you can share experiences with.
And the good news is that scientists believe that becoming a regular is actually good for your health. Studies show that regular pub patrons are more likely to have close friends who they can “call for support”, and are happier and more trusting than those who don’t regularly visit their local watering hole.
Moreover, those who drop into their local regularly feel “more engaged with their wider community.” And we could all do with a bit of that right now, don’t you think?
SAY YES
Being single needn’t mean being holed up at home, hermit like, and not experiencing life’s rich tapestry. Instead, stepping out of your comfort zone and out into the world can enrich your life as a single person.
In an article published in The Week, it was revealed that people who regularly say ‘yes’ are more content with their lives, and are happier, busier and even luckier. So, the next time an opportunity arises, banish the doubt and negativity and go for it!