Nyla Harris / Asst. A&C Editor 

“Table for one, please!” For many, going out for dinner solo, or doing any activity alone, is seen as an unfortunate, or accidental reality. Especially in the age of social media and dating apps, it can seem like everyone is out with other people, going on dates, in a relationship or in love.

Although there is no harm in going out and meeting people on dates, there can be a conception that dates and relationships outside of oneself are necessary in self-fulfillment and happiness. However, it is possible, and a practiced activity by many to not only go on a date alone, but to enjoy it too.

USD junior Bria Cirlig constantly takes herself out on dates. She explained her experience in self-dating and the balance of a relationship with others and with oneself.

“I take myself out on dates all the time. I’ve learned to be completely comfortable with doing things alone and developing a routine separate from other people; regardless of whether I’m in a relationship or not, I’m going to do my own thing,” Cirlig said. “Being able to find a healthy balance between spending time with your partner and having a life outside of that relationship is something that I think is key for having a successful relationship. You will only love and know others to the depth that you know and love yourself.”

Self-reflection, as discussed by Cirlig, often occurs on solo dates. It is an act which calls for serious thought about one’s character, actions and motives. Going on dates alone will not only help remind oneself what they’re looking for in relationships with others, but also aid in self-understanding.

USD senior Claire Madsen also finds joy in solo quality time. She commented on her experience taking herself out on dates and the importance of self- love and understanding before committing to relationships.

“I take myself out on dates all the time. Some of my favorite things to do are solo hikes and driving long distances, doing that alone can be really empowering and freeing,” Madsen said. “It’s so important to know yourself deeply first and be whole before you allow yourself to be with another person. At the end of the day, we are our only constant companions, so taking care of our mind and selves is so necessary.” 

Taking care of one’s mind and self can happen in many ways. Demonstrating self-love doesn’t necessarily have to stop at the act of going out on a solo date. It can be flourished through general self-care, further understood as doing things for oneself. 

USD senior Zachary Cramer expressed his options on the importance of self-care and encouraged students to practice it as well. “I think self-care matters so much more than people tend to think. Taking care of your mental and physical health can be difficult, especially as a student,” Cramer said. “It’s important to keep yourself grounded, reminding yourself every day what exactly you are working toward and what kind of person you want to be. Setting academic and social goals are a great way to continually work on yourself and avoid feeling stuck in a routine or way of life.”

Whether in or out of a relationship, spending quality time thinking about one’s likes and dislikes can enable clarity about who one is. It is critical to understand that going on a date doesn’t mean it has to be with anyone else. “Yourself” can be the only company one desires to spend time with. Many activities can be done alone, and love typically shown to others during dates can also be happily felt and expressed alone.

All the love you need is already inside of you. Anything else anyone provides is extra. In the world of dating, don’t forget the only person you’ll fully spend your whole life with is you. Take yourself out on a date.