Table for One

A lesson in dining alone, dating, and loving yourself.

The thought of taking myself out on a date had always intrigued me but I never had the courage to actually do until I did by accident. At an art museum for an art history project, I strolled pass a lovely cafe and I just so happened to be alone. I realized that it was as if I were on a date with myself. The exhibits, the music, and the overall atmosphere seemed almost perfect. At first, I passed the cafe but after a second thought I went in and proudly asked for a table for one. As i sat at the table alone, I observed the cafe and workers. Sitting at the table alone wasn’t as awkward as I expected. I ordered what I wanted without judgement; a vanilla iced latte and a veggie melt. For the first time in a long time, I felt a sense of relief. I could be myself completely and the feeling couldn’t have been more freeing. I spent the rest of the day walking the museum and I felt closer to myself than I had before. I could assess how I was feeling that day by only focusing my energy inward. As an introvert, I enjoy spending time alone, but that day seemed different. I wasn’t lonely because I had myself. Technically, I'm not single, I'm dating myself. I'm on a self love journey.

“Date yourself. Take yourself out to eat. Don't share your popcorn at the movies with anyone. Stroll around an art museum alone. Fall in love with canvases. Fall in love with yourself." - Anonymous

Fall in Love

Consider taking yourself out to eat or buying your own clothes as an opportunity to learn more about yourself. You start to notice things about yourself that only a person who loves you will appreciate. Once you enjoy your own company, you fall in love with everything that you do. That day at the cafe, I romanticized the way my voice softened as I talked to the server or the way I dabbed my lips with my napkin. I became very self aware of everything I did, including the little things.

Ask yourself would you date you. If your standards are higher than the bar you set for yourself than most likely not. In order to find a catch you have to be one. Imagine your ideal partner and put in the same work for yourself. Take a second and examine what you are doing in your life and see if it’s worth dating. Once you love yourself, those around you will be able to feel the love and want to do the same for you.

“If you're single, focus on being a better you instead of looking for someone better than your ex. A better you will attract a better next." - picturequotes.com

While others come and go, you are the only person that will remain.

In the end, all that’s left is you. Spending time alone shouldn’t be lonely since we come into this world alone and we will leave alone. There’s nothing more freeing than enjoying your own company. If you’re able to love yourself, then you’re able to date yourself and explore the world on your own. Take time each day to get to know yourself on an intimate level and as always continue going on your journey towards self love.