It can seriously suck being on your own, especially if you want to find love. You’re putting yourself out there and doing all the right things but still coming up short. It feels miserable and it’s hard not to get down about it. However, you don’t have to let your relationship status define you. If you’re struggling to find joy in solitude, the oystering dating trend may be for you.
What is the oystering dating trend?
Coined by dating app Badoo, the oystering dating trend is all about embracing everything the world has to offer, partner or none. If you’ve ever heard the expression “the world is your oyster,” you’ll understand what they’re going for here.
While many single people feel guilty or ashamed of being on their own, oystering is eschewing that ridiculous trend. Instead, you need to go out there and live your best life. After all, tomorrow is never guaranteed and there’s so much to do, see, and experience. Why wait for a partner?
“Dating is daunting after a relationship, but it doesn’t need to be. Ultimately, dating should be fun, and what better way to get over a breakup than having some fun?” Badoo’s global dating expert Sophie Mann explains. “We’ve seen many people getting back into dating, and we predict this new trend of seizing the ‘dating’ day will shine through as many singletons are feeling confident to go out there and get what they want.”
Sounds good to us!
How can you practice this in your own life?
- Plan a solo trip. This is almost a cliche at this point because it’s such a common suggestion. However, that’s true for a reason. Going on a trip to another city, state, or even country on your own is an eye-opener. Without the distraction (and sometimes drama) that comes along with having a travel companion, you can truly immerse yourself in other people, places, and cultures. You’ll be a better person for it, too.
- Take yourself out to dinner. Dating yourself is a big part of the oystering dating trend. You definitely don’t need someone to buy you drinks or pay for a steak dinner. You’re a boss on your own and can treat your damn self to a nice night out. There’s something empowering about a woman who doesn’t need a plus-one. Bring a book, order a glass of wine (or a bottle), and live it up.
- Go wild with your girls. Friendships sometimes fall by the wayside when we’re in relationships. Since you’re single, now’s the time to really solidify those connections. Your girls will always have your back no matter what. They know you better than anyone and bring out your best sides. Why not plan an amazing night out or weekend away where you can go totally nuts with them? There are tons of memories to be made. Make them!
- Solidify your self-worth. The oystering dating trend is less about other people and more about you. Now’s the time to really recognize and cement your self-worth. Know that your relationship status has nothing to do with how incredible you are. You’re smart, sexy, kind, funny, caring, and a million other amazing adjectives. The more you know that in your core, the less crap you’ll ever take from anyone.
- Take classes or join a few groups. Personal enrichment should always be a goal. From learning a new skill to practicing your passions, there are plenty of opportunities out there. Sign up for a cooking class or a book club. Take night courses in a subject you’ve always wanted to learn more about. Start a side hustle. You’ll always have things to do. What’s more, you’ll become even more interesting.
- Luxuriate in self-care. Again, oystering is all about you, not the person you may or may not be dating. While it’s nice to be pampered by someone else, you can and should treat yourself. After all, there’s nothing more luxurious than a spa day. You could even do your own mani/pedi, spend a morning meditating, or go on a hike.
- Fly by the seat of your pants. While most of our adult lives are ruled by routine, we should still add in a bit of spontaneity where we can. After all, being open to whatever comes your way can lead to some of the most amazing times of your life. Plus, you could end up discovering something totally new about yourself or the world.
- Keep an open mind. The oystering dating trend encourages an open mind. It’s about letting go of the status quo and again, opening yourself to new things. You can’t do that if you’re too rigid or stuck in routine. While you may have to train yourself to be more laid-back, it’s worth it. What’s more, it’s necessary to truly live your single life to the fullest.
- Feel yourself because you’re hot. After all, you’ll never be this young or this beautiful again. Don’t let these days pass you by. Look in the mirror and recognize what a grade-A snack you are and don’t let yourself forget it. One day, someone out there will be lucky to have you. In the meantime, you’ve got yourself. That’s worth enjoying.
