6 Ways To Make The Most Out Of Being Single This Summer
Single and looking? Why not have fun while you're doing it?
Bummed about being single? Luckily, summertime can be one of the best times for flying solo. There's plenty to do, and it's hard not to have a positive attitude with sunshine and great weather. Here are a few tips for making the most out of single life in the summer. And who knows? You just might meet someone interesting along the way.
1. Make New Friends.
I often hear single people complain that all of their friends are married or that their friends don't like going out, so they have no one to spend time with. If that's true for you, find some new social companions. Reconnect with that former co-worker you always got along with but haven't seen in years. Strike up a conversation with that woman you see in your spin class but have never said more than "hi" to. Humans are social creatures, and that's even more true than in the summertime when our socializing opportunities are at an all-time high. Take advantage and be open to new people! You'll expand your social circle and you'll have a good time while doing it.
2. Say YES!
Now, I'm not suggesting anything as daunting as saying yes to every single opportunity that presents itself (you don't have to go shark diving if you really don't want to). But the next time your neighbor invites you to a party, just go. Nevermind that you might not know anyone there, or that it's on a Friday night after a long week of work. Same goes for that play someone suggests you see, or that free concert in the park next Tuesday night. Life will pass you by if you don't take advantage of new opportunities. You never know who you might cross paths with outside of your usual routine. And even if you don't meet your new boyfriend or girlfriend at that concert, at least you will have had a good time!
3. Do Your Research.
We have an infinite amount of information constantly at our fingertips: no more excuses for not knowing where to go or what to do. Check out listing sites such as www.timeout.com, www.meetup.com, www.fusicology.com and your local newspaper's website. Use social media to keep up with events and parties. Follow local news outlets and event listing sites on Twitter. Don't ignore those Facebook invites people send you; stop and take a look at what's happening in your city. And do some of the inviting, too! Don't be afraid to spontaneously ask your co-worker to grab a drink with you after work. They call it "happy hour" for a reason!
More single advice from YourTango
- Newly Single? How To Make A Fresh Start
- How To Tell If A Guy Likes You
- Why You Shouldn't Sweat Being Single
4. Have a Fling!
With all that hot weather and scanty clothing, it's no wonder summer is a great time for hookups. If you're looking for a serious relationship but are willing to temporarily put your life partner search on hold, now is the time! Have you met someone you're attracted to but not sure they're marriage materal? That doesn't mean you can't enjoy their company for a little while. Having a fling doesn't necessarily mean having sex; sometimes a few fun dates, or a hot makeout session are all you need, especially if it's been awhile since you enjoyed some amorous companionship. Are you planning any vacations before the summer is out? That might be the perfect time for your fling! Just be really clear with yourself about what you are comfortable with and whether you can have a rendezvous without getting too attached.
5. Remember: "Perfection" is Not Required.
A lot of women (and some men) spend much of the year stressing about their bodies and how they'll look in that bathing suit or short shorts. If you are like most people in this country, you might have fallen short of your fitness goals. Oh well. Join the club! Summer isn't about having a supermodel body (and neither is any other season). Invest in some flattering seasonal clothes, hold your head high and rock that summer dress or swimsuit. Look and feel your personal best. Remember, confidence is sexy!
6. Get Out and About!
See a theme here? This is the single most important way to make the most out of your summer. Sitting inside in the comfort of your A/C won't bring you any lasting memories. You should be out enjoying yourself. The happier you are and the more joyfully you live your life, the more people are drawn to you. From picnics to beach outings to sitting and enjoying your coffee or dinner at a sidewalk café, the opportunities for fun are endless. Don't be afraid to go it alone if necessary. Take a book with you to that café, take a leisurely walk downtown, head to that singles mixer solo or strike up a conversation with the stranger buying beets next to you at the farmer's market. You never know where it might lead!