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Ditch the Dating Scene: 8 Exciting Ways to Spend Your Summer Single

Ditch the Dating Scene: 8 Exciting Ways to Spend Your Summer Single

 

It’s easy to become jaded with the whole dating scene, especially when you’re kissing frogs in search of your prince. Suddenly, the idea of getting dressed up and meeting someone new sounds like more effort than it’s worth, and you start to question if you’re the problem (spoiler: you’re not). If this is something you can relate to, chances are you’re burnt out on dating.

Dating burnout can occur for all kinds of reasons and manifest in a variety of ways, like unenjoyable first days and negative self-talk. But above all else, it makes you feel despondent about the process of finding a new partner. When this happens, taking a much-needed break from dating and filling your time in other ways is key.

Allow me to introduce to you 8 summer hobbies to pick up if you’re burnt out on dating. These activities will keep you occupied and help you recalibrate during your time off so you’re ready to get back in the game come fall.

1. Have weekly karaoke nights

Is there anything better than singing your favorite song at the top of your lungs with your besties by your side? Find a karaoke bar near you, grab a group of your closest friends, and make karaoke night a weekly thing. You might not be dating, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get dressed up, go out, and have fun.

2. Do arts and crafts

This just in: Partaking in arts and crafts as an adult has serious health benefits. It can reduce stress and anxiety, boost mindfulness, and help you get into a flow state—all of which can help you shake off that dating burnout. So, grab your besties or fly solo to a paint and sip class, learn how to make your own pottery, repaint a room in your home, or fill in an adult coloring book; the choice is yours! Whatever you decide, flexing your creativity and diving into a fun art project will help you recalibrate during your dating break; you’ll feel ready to get back out there when the time comes.

phot cred: @corapursley / Dupe Photos

3. Level up your chef skills

Leveling up your chef skills might sound tedious—especially if you’re a noob in the kitchen—but it’s actually the perfect way to spend your free time. When you’re cooking, you physically chop, dice, mix, and blend ingredients accordingly and mentally focus on the task at hand, lest you risk missing a crucial step in the process. And this allows you to stop ruminating on your dating life and heal your burnout. What’s more, it also encourages you to make healthier choices; you won’t be as tempted to order takeout and will want to shop for the healthiest and freshest ingredients at your local farmer’s market.

4. Take up an outdoor sport

If you’ve been staying active via hot girl walks or Pilates, switch things up with an outdoor sport like tennis, pickleball, golf, or volleyball. This will help you get outside and take advantage of the sunshine while burning calories and still looking good. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people and grow your friendship circle, and fill your time in a healthy and productive way.

5. Practice mindfulness

This is the perfect time to work on your inner zen, and this can be accomplished through mindfulness practices like deep breathing, meditation, and journaling. If you’re new to any of these practices, consider enlisting the help of apps like Open, Calm, or Headspace, along with a guided wellness journal. Taking the time to slow down and get in touch with yourself will help you find inner peace, and this in turn will translate to every facet of your life; you’ll feel grounded when it comes to handling anything in your personal life, professional life, or love life.

6. Play cards

If you’ve been itching to try your hand at poker or blackjack (or any other card game, really) now’s your chance. Take advantage of this time by learning the basics of a beloved card game, and up the stakes by hosting a card night for your friends and family. Once you’ve gotten really good, end the summer with a (responsible) celebration and game at the casino with your favorite people.

7. Go sightseeing

Let’s be real: We’re creatures of habit. We tend to frequent the same spots time and time again. But it’s time to shake things up, so act like a tourist and go sightseeing where you live! Visit historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries, scope out local festivals and fairs, and hit up different hotspots for all your summer outings. Doing this will keep your life fun and fresh, fill your time, and get you out and about—no date or partner necessary.

8. Romance yourself

They say you should fall in love with yourself first, and what better way to do just that than with a little bit of romance? Make the most out of your solo time by indulging in what brings you pleasure and engaging in plenty of self-care; boldly take yourself out to dinner, take an everything shower, and have that steamy solo sesh in the bedroom. Romancing yourself is the ultimate power move, and a stark reminder that you don’t need anyone else to bring you pleasure, joy, or fulfillment.