For single parents, finding time for yourself seems like a chore in and of itself. After a long week of meal prepping, shopping, cleaning, and raising the kids, having plans with a special someone would be a great way to unwind. But aside from the apps, where’s a nice guy or gal to go to meet other singles?
Take a break from the dangers of catfishing and ghosting, and try to find your soulmate or a nice weekend fling in real life. Here are some places where love may await:
BOULDERING
If you’re looking for a new adventure in life, taking up a new hobby or sport is a great way to meet people. In doing something like rock climbing, you get the added benefit of honing new skills and exercising, as well as meeting someone with similar interests. Stay within your limits to avoid injury. For some lighter-impact outdoor fun, take nature walks on the B&A Trail or at Quiet Waters Park.
Pros: The element of danger can get your heart beating fast and inspire some flirty feelings.
Cons: It can be a bit challenging and you’ll be in a vulnerable position in front of potential suitors.
VOLUNTEERING
What better way to find a potential new romance with someone who cares about the same causes that you do? Participate in a park clean-up, spend some time serving meals at the soup kitchen, or donate your time to your local faith community.
Pros: Whoever you meet would share your worldview and values of being back to your community.
Cons: Hairnets can be unflattering if you’re trying to make a strong first impression.
GROCERY OR CONVENIENCE STORES
Picture this: you are strolling in Safeway, absentmindedly picking up breakfast cereal or milk, when you spot a hunky stranger eyeballing the same brand as you. Checking out the left hand, seems to be clear. Do you start a casual conversation? Or make eyes and walk away? There’s some pros and cons to keep in mind:
Pros: Grocery shopping is usually a boring activity. Meeting a charming single could be a nice way to break up the monotony of this chore.
Cons: If they reject you, you may never be able to set foot in there again. Think of the savings you’ll miss out on!
BAR OR A CLUB
What about the good ol’ days, when you met strangers in a social watering hole like a singles bar? Worth a shot, right?
Pros: Easy to buy a drink for a stranger, low expectations for a long conversation, can share a dance or a brief exchange, and get out of there if there’s no chemistry.
Cons: Alcohol could blur your judgment and you could regret making the first move in the light of day. They call them beer goggles for a reason.
Basically, if you’re out and about in everyday life, you can read the room and roll the dice on a “meet cute.” What about the flipside? Where should you NOT approach a cute stranger?
DENTIST OFFICE WAITING ROOM
Or doctor’s office, or hospital…. Anything medical, really. Everyone’s preoccupied, either nervously anticipating their turn or practicing excuses for not flossing, so romantic vibes are hard to spark. Imagine somebody trying to chat you up while you’re mentally preparing for the discomfort of a dental procedure.
AT THE GYM
Sweaty and makeup-free isn’t how I’d prefer to meet a new romantic partner. We’re here to challenge our bodies and then get the heck home for a shower – please don’t speak to me. (Unless, I just walked in a cute matching two piece set with my Stanley cup in hand.) Plus, there’s always the risk of misreading signals— what you thought was a flirty glance might just be someone spotting their next set of reps.
However, if cupid has other plans, and the opportunity happens naturally, go for it! Besides, “When love calls, you better answer!”
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