My partner and I have lived together for the last 11 years.
We’ve had 11 years of daily chats, laughs, cuddles, kisses, adventures, routine and above all deep companionship. Living with him has been like living with a sexy best friend and I’ve been spoilt rotten.
But life took a turn recently when he embarked on a month-long solo adventure to visit his family abroad and I chose to stay at home with the dog.
They say absence makes the heart grow fonder – I can concur it does. But what they don’t say is that it makes your brain sad too!
Without him physically here, my go-to feel-good, dopamine-on-tap love dispenser has runneth dry!
And I have really felt the difference.
Rather than hermit myself on the couch or distract myself with non-stop friends and family, I wondered if could I actually give myself my own feel-good feelings?
How could I date myself and be my own best partner?
My Solo Date Adventure: A Journey to Self-Love
Delicious Dining: The evening commenced with preparing a delectable dinner for myself, and unlike my usual habit of dining in front of a screen, I chose to relish it at a table mindfully savouring every bite.
Dressing Up and Self-Compliments: I dressed up for myself and put make-up on with the sole goal of pleasing myself. And I gave myself a cheeky compliment or two because the dog didn’t appreciate the effort I made.
A Romantic Stroll by the Beach: The soothing sound of the waves accompanied my audiobook as I strolled along the beach. This solo escapade was a gentle reminder that I didn’t have to do anything special to entertain myself. Just walking in nature was infinitely peaceful and fulfilling.
Live Music and Courage: I actually walked past the bar twice before I had the courage to go in and sit by myself. The initial nervousness soon subsided however as I found myself enjoying the music more than I was concerned that other people were judging me.
Dance to the Rhythm of My Soul: Returning home, the party continued, this time in my kitchen. I allowed myself to dance and sing and enlisted a wooden spoon as a makeshift microphone. I found wasn’t alone as the beats were my company.
Cuddles and Guilty Pleasures: Nestling with my furry friend on the couch, we indulged in guilty pleasures together, watching “Celebs Go Dating.” It was a cosy ending to a day filled with self-love and self-discovery.
As the day unfolded, I found immense joy and empowerment in being my own date. While I missed the presence of my partner, this experience reaffirmed that I am capable of being a fabulous companion to myself and that I can revel in my own company.
It’s a liberating realisation that irrespective of our relationship status, we can set aside time for ourselves – to nourish our souls, embrace spontaneity, and cherish the unique individuals we are.
How Would You Date Yourself?
The challenge is open to all – whether you are single or in a relationship. Take a moment to plan a date with yourself, a day that nurtures your soul and celebrates your essence. Allow yourself this beautiful gift of self-love, and discover the joy of being your own best partner.
