Spring is finally here (goodbye, winter depression), which means we can step outside without instantly regretting it. Do you feel it too? That sudden boost of energy, that urge to soak up the sun, that little voice in your head saying, let’s go do something fun?

I know I do. As much as I love cozy winter days wrapped in blankets, I’m definitely a sunnier (pun intended), more motivated person when the seasons change. And one thing I always find myself doing more in spring? Spending time outside—by myself.

So, I put together a list of my favorite solo dates (#datesofsolitude) and a few I still want to try this season. If you’ve been looking for a sign to romanticize your alone time, this is it.

1. Go on a nature walk or hike

A walk is probably the easiest way to start enjoying your own company. You don’t need a plan—just step outside and see where your feet take you. Even a simple stroll around your neighborhood can feel like an adventure when you take the time to notice things you usually overlook. I find that walking isn’t just about movement; it’s about mindfulness. When I’m rushing from A to B, I barely take in my surroundings. But when I walk just for the sake of walking, I actually see things—quirky houses, cute street art, the way sunlight filters through the trees. Whereas sometimes I’m in the mood to listen to a podcast or to music, sometimes I just want to hear the sound of the birds and people around me.

2. Read in a park

This is hands down my favorite solo activity. If you’re anxious about spending time alone in public, this is the perfect first step—you can get lost in a book and completely ignore the world around you (or pretend to, at least). Plus, nothing beats reading under the sun with a little spring breeze. Right now, I’m in my #self-helpbooks era and currently reading The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté (highly recommend if you love psychology and self-growth), but I also love diving into fiction when I just want to switch off my brain. A current favorite? Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes—light, fun, and easy to get lost in.

3. Have a solo picnic

This one might sound a little intimidating, but if you’ve already mastered reading in the park, a picnic isn’t much different. The only real change? A blanket (hello, peak comfort) and some snacks. When I lived in Spain, I had a version of this routine—I’d take myself to the beach every Sunday with a book, a notebook, and sometimes a snack. But an actual picnic? Haven’t tried it yet. So, this spring, I’m challenging myself to pack up some food, find a cozy spot, and just enjoy the moment.

4. Explore a city on your own

Confession: I’ve never explored a city alone. Sure, I’ve done city trips, but always with friends. And even when I go into my own city, it’s usually to meet someone, not just wander for the sake of wandering. But there’s something so appealing about taking a day to just be in a city—grabbing a coffee, discovering hidden streets, popping into random shops, and soaking it all in without worrying about anyone else’s schedule. Definitely adding this to my spring bucket list.

5. Go to a café

I’ve worked from cafés before, but I’ve never gone just to enjoy a coffee and sit with my thoughts. The idea has always intrigued me, but I’ve also felt too aware of myself to actually do it. Then, recently, I noticed a woman sitting alone at a café—not working, not reading, just enjoying her drink. And I admired that so much. There’s something powerful about being comfortable in your own presence, no distractions needed. So, this spring, I’m doing it. I’m picking a cozy café, ordering my favorite drink, and just being.

Final thoughts

Spending time alone can feel uncomfortable at first, but once you get past that initial awkwardness, it’s so freeing. You realize that you don’t always need company to enjoy yourself—and that, sometimes, your own company is the best company there is.

So—what’s something you want to do by yourself this spring? 💛