Dating does not have to be difficult when you are sober. Keeping dating simple can lessen the stress of impressing your special someone and thus make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.
Ten Fun Sober Dating Ideas
Dating is a great way to get to know someone new or to strengthen a relationship with your significant other. Yet dating when you are sober can often be a challenge. Typical date venues feature alcohol, which can make the date stressful and jeopardize your recovery. To help you start thinking more creatively about dating, we offer the following ideas:
- Take a class together. Learning something new together can make for a perfect date. Some ideas for classes include cooking, painting, pottery, or fitness.
- Go outdoors. Breathing in fresh air and enjoying the outdoors is not only a fun date but can also supply a daily dose of exercise. You can take a nature hike, go for a walk at a park, or play a sport for two, such as tennis or golf.
- Grab a coffee. Meeting for a coffee date can be ideal when you are getting to know someone. Choose a cozy, local coffee shop to sit and talk, and grab a sweet treat to enjoy with your cup of coffee or tea.
- Go to the movies. A classic date idea is to go see a movie. Find out what interests your date and pick a movie that you both will enjoy. Another option is to stay in and watch a movie from the comfort of your home. Be sure to include popcorn and soda!
- Volunteer. Why not donate your time while enjoying the company of someone special? Many animal shelters and community organizations need help. Or, look for a local event that allows you to spend the day together while helping others in need.
- Pack a picnic. Grab a picnic basket and fill it with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks and take your date on a picnic. Don’t forget to bring a comfortable blanket to sit on and a bag for your trash.
- Enjoy your town. Every town or city has unique offerings that are ideal for dates. Maybe your city has an art museum, a downtown shopping area, a flea market, or a food festival. Enjoy what your area has to offer while spending time with your special person.
- Sporting event. Going to a sporting event can be fun and exciting. Local colleges and universities will offer opportunities to see events year-round; try choosing a sport neither of you have ever before seen live.
- Ice cream date. A simple yet delicious date is to enjoy an ice cream cone at your favorite ice cream shop. Get to know your date while eating a sweet dessert. You can either sit together or take a walk while eating your ice cream.
- Do something different. Get out of your comfort zone and do something different. Try a trampoline park, go ride roller coasters at an amusement park, or eat a new food you haven’t tried before.
What to Avoid When Dating While Sober
It is important to be honest with your date and let them know you do not want to be surrounded by drinking or drugs. If the person you are interested in does not understand or reacts negatively to your sober lifestyle, then they may not be the right person to pursue.
If you are sober and working on your recovery, avoid the following:
- A date who is looking to get high or intoxicated
- Being around friends who pressure you to drink when you are out on a date
- Uncomfortable situations where you are the only one sober
- Being in a place you can’t immediately leave if you are feeling uneasy
Find Support While Dating
Dating can be stressful. Sometimes having a support system in place while dating can be helpful and can keep you focused on your recovery. You may find support from sources such as:
- Trusted friends or family
- Your sponsor
- Your recovery community
- 12-step meetings
Ultimately, you may decide that you are not ready to start dating or enter any new relationships at this time. Recovery takes a lot of work and a lot of time. If you’re not feeling solid in your relationship with yourself, it’s probably too soon to start a new romantic relationship.
We are Here to Help
If you are struggling with dating while sober, you do not need to struggle alone. The staff at Mount Laurel Recovery Center is here to help 24/7. We have tools to help educate and support you on your sober journey and offer a variety of services to meet your personal needs as well as 12-step support, family programs, and holistic treatments.