While being in a long-term and happy relationship is the goal for most people, that doesn’t mean that not being in one need be a bad thing. Being single, once you’ve gotten over being the third wheel, and become well used to bad Tinder dates, is actually pretty great. With data showing that 30% of millennials say they always or often feel lonely, though, too much me-time is leading to a rise in mental health issues. Here’s how to battle the boredom and stay connected when living alone.
Get a hobby.
If there’s something you’ve been waiting to try, but haven’t had the chance because you’ve been focussed on a relationship, now is your chance. Whether it’s a new sport, training for a marathon, yoga, cooking, or knitting, use this period of singleness to get stuck in. If you already have your specific hobbies locked down, spend the time doing more of the things you love. It’s your thing. Take advantage of the opportunity that you don’t need to share yourself.
Enjoy your own company.
The freedom that comes with being single can be incredible, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its tricky moments. One thing that many people find hard is being alone with their own thoughts a lot, especially if it means more time to think about a recent breakup. Therapists, such as those listed here, can help you deal with such issues, but learning how to enjoy your own company can be just as beneficial. Learning to be comfortable alone is a great skill to have, and can help you prove to yourself and other people that you can be perfectly happy as a single person.
Be spontaneous.
One of the most awesome things about being single is not needing to consider another person when making decisions. You can do whatever you want, whenever you want. Be spontaneous. If an opportunity comes up, take it. If you want to go on vacation at a moment’s notice, do it. The only one who needs to be on board is you. You should also take every opportunity you can to say ‘yes’. Whatever you’re saying yes to, big or small, just say yes. You never know where it can take you.
Travel.
While taking vacations with your other half is terrific, traveling alone can also be an amazingly rewarding experience. Go somewhere you’ve never been. Take a friend or two if you’re nervous, and you’ll be amazed at how much fun it is to just be free. You can travel with your next partner when you find them, but don’t put off going somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit just because you’re single.
Take time to reflect.
Now that you have a whole load more time to spend with yourself, it’s essential to take some time for genuine self-reflection. What is it you want out of your next relationship? If so, there are plenty of places to find interracial dating single women online. Are you ready to take the next thing? What do you want for your life outside of any potential relationship? Is there anything you want to do that you’re not currently doing? This isn’t intended to be an exercise in self-criticism, but guidance. Be kind to yourself.
See your friends.
Because we all know that when you’re in a relationship, other people in your life seem to vanish, visit your friends and family. These permanent relationships are what matters most.
