by Rizwana Bi

Going on solo dates is trending. It is fast becoming a norm that many are happy to embrace. No longer tinged with a sense of embarrassment, but with empowerment and freedom. There is neither constraint nor reliance on the availability of someone else: it's all about me, myself and I.  However, you define a solo date - whether it’s an activity that feels like a ‘date’ with yourself or simply having some me-time to watch a film, meditate, or do nothing at all - it matters. 

At a team meeting, I had asked MWNUK staff if they’ve come across this concept and if so, have they taken this up. Here’s what some had to say on this: 

‘I’ve always done a little solo dating – going out on walks and grabbing some me time in my bedroom to read a book.’ 

“I’ve heard of the term and happily will go out on my own.’  

‘I’ve heard of the term, too. I do it a lot, but do feel guilty, because I think about my mum who I know would have enjoyed this.’ 

‘I’m not for solo dates, more into solo time. Taking self on a long drive.’ 

‘I’ve taken myself on a long drive to the countryside. Stopping by a lake – well done that partially!’ 

‘I go on walks, take myself to cafes, but I do get a sense of guilt – should I be splashing out on myself.’ 

A few shared that they often felt guilty about taking time out for themselves. It struck me how common this feeling is, especially for those of us who pour so much into others in our work, families, and communities. But here’s the truth: going on solo dates isn’t selfish; they’re essential.  

As a foodie, I try to go on a solo date at least once a month. Usually this involves checking out a new restaurant, treating myself to a sweet bake, or trying out the latest trendy food item. This shift in attitude is reflected in wider trends - solo dining and travelling are becoming increasingly popular. Among Gen Z and millennials, dining solo has especially grown. After the pandemic, attitudes have shifted - solo dining has increased by 14% in the UK, according to OpenTable. People are reclaiming dining out as a form of self-care and empowerment.  

This growing trend extends to solo-travelling, too. Apparently in 2023 solo travellers had spent an estimated £11.6 billion on holidays. We are seeing more Muslim women being inspired to go either travelling on their own or with women-only groups. On MWN Hub, we had featured The Muslim Travel Girl and Muslim women founded travel companies to demonstrate the shift in attitudes leading to transformative movement in the travel industry – that is Muslim women are driving forward the Muslim-friendly tourism. 

As women, we walk through life wearing so many hats: sibling, friend, partner, parent; and sometimes we forget to just be with ourselves. Solo dates and travelling can be a beautiful way to pour back into your own cup. They can bring joy, give you space to reflect, or simply allow you to pause and notice what you’re missing and what you need to feel whole again.  

It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant. Maybe it’s your favourite pastry and a coffee, an art gallery visit, a quiet reading hour, or sitting in your car listening to music.  

Whatever your solo date looks like, claim it without guilt! It’s a small but powerful commitment to yourself.