"یک قرار تجربه‌ای است که با شخص دیگری دارید که باعث می‌شود قدر تنها بودن را بدانید."

Sometimes, you go on dates that make you realize just how much you value your own company. The quote essentially points out that not all dates are dreamy and magical—in fact, some can be quite the opposite. And when you find yourself on one of those awkward or uncomfortable dates, it can make you appreciate the peace and tranquility of being by yourself.

Think back to your own experiences, or maybe stories you’ve heard from friends. There’s a good chance that at some point, you or someone you know ended up on a date that was less than stellar. Maybe the conversation was forced and stilted, or perhaps there was no chemistry. Or, worst-case scenario, the person was rude or just plain boring. Moments like these make you long for the simple pleasure of being home alone with a good book or a favorite TV show.

Let's take a real-life example to bring this to life. Imagine Sarah, who decides to give online dating a shot. She matches with someone who seems nice enough, and they arrange to meet at a cozy little cafe. But, from the moment they sit down, the date is a disaster. The guy is glued to his phone, barely making an effort to engage. When he does talk, it's all about him—his job, his hobbies, his exes. Sarah tries to steer the conversation to common interests, but it’s like talking to a wall. By the end of the evening, she’s mentally exhausted and can’t wait to get home.

As she walks back to her apartment, Sarah feels a sense of relief. She kicks off her shoes, sinks into her couch, and savors the quiet. The comfort of her own space and the freedom to do as she pleases feels more precious than ever. The bad date serves as a reminder of how enjoyable and fulfilling her own company can be.

So, how do we apply this wisdom? First, don’t feel pressured to go on dates just for the sake of it. It’s perfectly okay to be selective and wait for someone who genuinely interests you. If you do find yourself on a lackluster date, try to see it as an opportunity to learn more about what you truly want in a partner—and what you don’t.

Next, embrace alone time. Use it to explore your interests, develop new skills, or simply relax. Being comfortable with being by yourself means you don’t settle for just anyone; you wait for the right person who adds genuine joy to your life.

Think about this scenario: You’ve had a long week and you’re looking forward to a quiet Friday night. But then, a friend sets you up on a blind date. You’re hesitant but decide to go. The date turns out to be bland, and you find yourself wishing you were at home, curled up with your favorite movie. When you finally make it back, the first thing you do is change into comfy clothes, grab some snacks, and hit play. The satisfaction you feel in that moment is undeniable. It’s a reminder that your own company isn’t just enough—it’s wonderful.

So next time you’re on a date that makes you question why you even bothered, just remember: sometimes, these experiences highlight the beauty of solitude. They teach you to cherish your own time and not to waste it on anything less than what you truly deserve.