You’ve gone on a what feels like a million dates, some good, some brutal and others just straight up disappointing. The majority of your friends are getting engaged or living with their significant other while your go-to Friday night consists of eating a whole rotisserie chicken and watching Law and Order SVU while curled in a ball of self pity.
Putting yourself out there takes courage and when nothing seems to be working out, your self esteem can take a nosedive. You’re ready to throw in the towel, adopt 8 cats and live in the woods for the rest of your life.
Before you succumb to the life of a crazy cat lady, let’s change your mindset and have fun while dating.
Here are 5 ways to shift your mindset and become the fabulous woman you are!
Girls Night Out
Balance your week by going on a few dates and devoting a couple nights to hanging out with your gal pals! Girlfriends are always the greatest ego boost; from complimenting your lipstick color to ranting about how funny you are, your confidence will sky rocket! Swapping stories will have you in stitches and feeling 100% like yourself again.
Write About Your Experiences
If you don’t already have a journal, I highly suggest you make it your next purchase! If you lack the ability to compartmentalize your thoughts, writing them down on paper will alleviate a lot of stress and provide a great deal of clarity.
*Bonus – If you go on a really fantastic date, write about it, and end up with that person for life, you can look back and see what you were feeling when you met “the one”.
Don’t Take Things Personally
This is much easier said than done. But it’s true, you’re not going to connect with everyone you meet. This isn’t because you lack a certain quality or personality trait, you two simply aren’t the right fit for one another. If you’re already doubting your compatibility after the first few dates, it most likely will not result in a long term relationship. When you find someone special, you will innately have a feeling.
Keep Busy
If you’ve noticed a lack of motivation lately to do things you love, change that asap! Your hobbies and talents make you who you are and it is important to remember that! You have the ability to do whatever you like with your time right now. If you catch yourself dwelling on the fact you’re single, take 5 minutes to feel sorry for yourself then snap out of it and go for a walk, read a book or cook your favorite meal. If you are continually festering in a pool of negativity it will absolutely follow you on your next date.
Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
If you have dates booked every night of the week, props to you – that is seriously impressive! It is; however, important to not burn yourself out. Set up at least one date a week, and make sure it works with your schedule so you are capable of giving your full time and attention to that person.
Now peel yourself off the couch, put the chicken away and plan your next date!
