5 Reasons to Go on a Solo Date
PSA: You don't need a plus-one to have fun! Trust us—solo dates are the ultimate self-love move. Here are five reasons you should start taking yourself out.
Words Kaila Dy
Photos courtesy of Jianna Lee
March 17, 2025
In the Philippines, most activities revolve around togetherness. Family celebrations turn into full-blown reunions, and even a simple coffee run can spiral into hours of chismis and giggles with your barkada. From the loudest dinner tables with titas passing lumpia to the obligatory family selfie before every meal, doing things alone just isn’t the norm. Here, togetherness is the default, making solo dates feel like a foreign concept.
If someone is caught eating alone at a restaurant or watching a movie solo, those “kawawa naman” glances from strangers are almost inevitable. But here’s something to remember: just because someone steps out alone doesn’t mean they’re lonely. In fact, taking yourself out is one of the most empowering things you can do.
A solo date is the ultimate act of self-love—a chance to treat yourself, rekindle lost interests, and romanticize life. And the possibilities are endless. Watch a movie by yourself, enjoy a quiet coffee break at your favorite cozy café, or pour your thoughts into a journal.
If you’re still hesitant about stepping out alone, that’s totally understandable. Being alone can feel intimidating—we’ve been there! It’s easy to get caught up in what others might think, but trust us, once you take that first step, you’ll realize how liberating it can be. So, here are five reasons to finally go on a solo date:
1. You Can Go Home Whenever You Want
We’ve all been there—stuck in a social event we’re over, secretly eyeing the friend with the car keys, debating whether it’s too soon to call it a night. But when you’re on your own, that’s no longer an issue—you’re finally on your own time! Grab dinner, head straight home, or binge that show you’ve been putting off. No awkward waiting, no forced small talk—just leave whenever you want, no explanations needed.
2. It Builds Confidence and Independence
Let’s get one thing straight: Filipinos thrive in each other’s company, so the idea of doing something alone sounds absurd to many. But once you push past the initial awkwardness, solo dates can be a major confidence booster. Sitting alone in a little coffee shop? Empowering. Watching a movie in the cinema by yourself? Main character moment. Learning to enjoy your own company—without worrying about what others think—is one of the most powerful exercises in self-growth.
3. You Get to Do Exactly What You Want
Ever craved sushi, but your friends insisted on samgyup? Wanted to check out an art exhibit, but no one else was interested? On a solo date, you’re in charge. No compromises, no debates—just pure, unfiltered you time. Eat what you love, explore what excites you, and do whatever makes your heart happy.
4. It’s the Ultimate Self-Care Ritual
Between work, responsibilities, and the endless chaos of life, it’s easy to forget the importance of slowing down. A solo date is a way to pause and pour back into yourself. Whether it’s a candlelit dinner at a fancy restaurant, a peaceful nature walk, or a quiet evening browsing your favorite bookstore, it’s a reminder that your happiness deserves attention too.
5. It’s a Great Way to Romanticize Life
You don’t need a partner to enjoy a candlelit dinner, watch a breathtaking sunset, or sip coffee at a charming café. Filipinos love kilig moments, but why wait for someone else to create them when you can do it for yourself? A solo date is your time to romance your own existence. Dress up, indulge in dessert, take yourself on a spontaneous adventure—because you deserve it.
So, are you ready to take yourself out?
