But that being said, today I'd like to encourage you to take yourself on a date.
I've been joking with my friends that if I had to put a hashtag on my year, it'd be the year of #datingmyself. I've been (super, unbelievably, overwhelmingly) fortunate to build an incredible community in Arlington/DC, and it's the greatest. But it also means that I, as someone who values alone time to recharge, have to be intentional with myself. When there are people around all the time and plans constantly being made, I have to remind myself not to forget about me.
That sounds funny, I'll admit it. But I think our socially-minded culture tells us to be super intentional with seeking out and spending time with others (which is a great thing), but doesn't often tell us to seek out time alone.
And time alone is GOOD, y'all. Capital G-O-O-D. Truly, I've found that as I've been more intentional about getting away and having adventures alone, the more comfortable I'm feeling in my own skin. I know myself more. I know what scares me. I know what things bring me joy. I know more about my patterns. I'm more familiar with the way that I dream. I've produced more creative work.
I've actually discovered that as a result of spending some time learning about me, I'm more of my best self for other people. The confidence I have in my own tendencies, beliefs, and passions has given me extra room to connect and respond to the lives of my friends around me.
Sometimes it feels uncomfortable. The first time I went to a movie alone (which is an activity I'm simply addicted to now), I kept feeling like everyone was staring at me. The first time I ate at a restaurant alone (it was a Cracker Barrel, so not exactly the finest establishment, but still...) I got a pity look from my waitress. But the more often I go somewhere alone, the more freedom I find in it. And the more I find to love about this time to recharge.
And so today, on this gorgeous sunshiny-Saturday, I took myself on the greatest afternoon date. It was so much fun that I simply have to gush about it. I popped into the city and went on a long walk around some new neighborhoods I'd never explored. I picked out my favorite row houses (I found one that was green with purple shutters that won me over) and people-watched and enjoyed the sun. I had an Americano at The Coffee Bar in Shaw and wrote a poem. Then I walked more and made my way to SUNdeVICH for the most delicious Capri sandwich ever (and it was fortunate that my date was a book and not a boy because I scarfed that thing down in a most unladylike fashion) before heading home.
It was just lovely. I prayed some and created some and thought about some things that are important. I got to explore the city in a way that was new and relaxing. Perhaps you can use this as a template for the next time you're looking to treat yourself to some time away. I promise it'll be rewarding. And you'll be better for it, too.
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