Going through life as a single woman over 50 comes with a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re newly single or have been flying solo for a while, welcoming this phase can lead to a fulfilling and vibrant life.
Here are 10 activities to consider that can help you rediscover yourself, connect with others, and find joy in new experiences.
Travel Solo – Explore new destinations at your own pace and discover the joy of discovering the world independently.
Join a Book Club or Start One – Connect with like-minded readers and engage in lively discussions about books that inspire, entertain, and provoke thought.
Volunteer Your Time – Give back to your community while meeting new people and finding purpose through meaningful service.
Take Up a New Hobby – Dive into an activity that sparks joy and creativity, whether it’s painting, gardening, or learning a new instrument.
Go on a Wellness Retreat – Rejuvenate your body and mind at a retreat focused on relaxation, mindfulness, and holistic well-being.
Keep reading to discover more things to do as a single woman over 50.
Things to Do as a Single Woman
Being single over 50 is not a time to shrink back; it’s a time to expand, explore, and engage with life in new and meaningful ways. By taking on new challenges, building connections, and finding joy in both small moments and grand adventures, you can create a vibrant and fulfilling life. Remember, this chapter is all about you and what brings you happiness. So, take the plunge – there’s a whole world waiting for you to explore!
Travel Solo
Traveling alone can be an amazing experience. You get to set your own pace, explore destinations that truly interest you, and connect with locals and fellow travelers. Consider joining a group travel tour tailored for women over 50, where you can meet like-minded adventurers and form lasting friendships. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer trip abroad, solo travel is about discovering not just new places but also new facets of yourself.
Read The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel for Women over 50.
Also read 7 Best Senior Travel Groups.
Join a Book Club or Start One
If you love reading, a book club can be a fantastic way to meet people with similar interests. Engaging in discussions about different genres, authors, and themes can broaden your perspective and keep your mind sharp. If there isn’t a book club in your area that suits your taste, why not start your own? Invite friends, neighbors, or even strangers you meet at the local library.
Read 6 Book Club Picks.
Also read When a Book Club Turns into Something More.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to your community while also meeting new people. Whether it’s helping at a local animal shelter, mentoring younger women, or contributing to a food bank, there are countless opportunities to make a difference. Plus, volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that enriches your daily life.
Read Volunteering Abroad Destinations for Active Women Over 50.
Also read Is Volunteering for You After 60? These 10 Benefits May Be the Boost You Need.
Take Up a New Hobby
This is the perfect time to pursue interests that may have been on the back burner. Whether it’s painting, gardening, learning a musical instrument, or taking up photography, engaging in a creative or relaxing hobby can be therapeutic and exciting. Joining local classes or groups related to your new interest can also help you expand your social circle.
Read Hobbies for Women Over 50 – Amazing Ideas from the Sixty and Me Community.
Also read How My Hobbies Forced Me to Slow Down.
Go on a Wellness Retreat
Consider attending a wellness retreat focused on relaxation, mindfulness, or fitness. These retreats can offer a chance to disconnect from daily routines, help your body and mind, and connect with other women on a similar journey. Many retreats cater specifically to women over 50, focusing on holistic well-being and personal growth.
Read 9 Wellness Retreats in the USA.
Also read Embrace Wellness: A Transformational Travel Experience.
Take a Class or Course
It’s never too late to learn something new. Enroll in a class at a local community college, online, or through a specialized workshop. From pottery to philosophy, cooking to coding, expanding your knowledge is not only satisfying but can also open doors to new friendships and opportunities.
Read 5 Top-Rated Free Online Classes for Women Over 50.
Explore Online Dating
If you’re open to the idea of finding companionship or even love, online dating can be a fun and exciting avenue to explore. There are platforms specifically tailored for those over 50, focusing on meaningful connections rather than casual encounters. Approach online dating with an open mind, and you might be pleasantly surprised by who you meet.
Read The Top 5 Best Dating Sites for Seniors.
Attend Social and Networking Events
Many communities host events tailored to single or older adults. These can range from wine tastings and cooking classes to business networking and speed dating. Attending these events can help you meet people in similar stages of life and interests, creating opportunities for friendship, collaboration, or romance.
Read 8 Useful Networking Groups for Women Over 60.
Focus on Fitness
Staying active is vital for both physical and mental well-being, especially as we age. Join a yoga or Pilates class, take up dancing, or participate in a local walking group. Not only will you stay fit, but you’ll also connect with other health-conscious individuals. Many fitness groups offer social events, creating a supportive community of friends.
Read Sharing My Own Powerlifting Story: From Kettlebells to a Silver Medal.
Also read Tips for Finding a Fitness Program That Is Right for You.
Write Your Story
Whether you start a blog, keep a journal, or write a memoir, putting your thoughts on paper can be incredibly therapeutic. Writing allows you to reflect on your experiences, share your wisdom, and perhaps inspire others. If you’re comfortable, consider joining a writing group or workshop to share your work and receive feedback from others on similar journeys.
Read How to Start Writing Your Memoir.
Also read Writing Your Memoir Is Easier Than You Think.
Finding Freedom in Your 50s – The Benefits of Being Single
Reaching your 50s as a single woman can feel like entering a whole new world – a world filled with fresh opportunities to embrace independence, rediscover who you are, and venture on new personal growth journeys. After years of possibly focusing on others – whether that was a spouse, children, or a career – this phase of life offers a chance to put yourself first and explore what genuinely makes you happy.
Absolute Independence and Autonomy
One of the most liberating aspects of being single in your 50s is the unparalleled independence it brings. You have complete control over your life, from making significant decisions to crafting your daily routine. Want to redecorate your home in bold colors? Go for it. Considering a last-minute trip? Pack your bags. This stage allows you to focus on what you truly want without having to compromise or negotiate with a partner. You’re free to prioritize your needs, set your own goals, and take charge of your future without any constraints.
Opportunity for Deep Self-Discovery
Singlehood in your 50s can be a time of profound self-discovery. With the freedom to explore your interests, passions, and even your beliefs, you can go deeper into what makes you unique. This period is ideal for trying new hobbies, engaging in creative pursuits, or even going back to school to study something you’ve always been passionate about. It’s about reconnecting with yourself – exploring facets of your personality that may have been overlooked while juggling the responsibilities of partnership, family, or career.
Focus on Personal Growth and Well-being
Being single provides the perfect opportunity to prioritize personal growth and well-being. With more time on your hands, you can focus on practices that enhance your mental, emotional, and physical health. Whether it’s adopting a regular exercise routine, practicing mindfulness and meditation, or committing to therapy or coaching for personal development, this is the time to invest in yourself. You have the space to set goals and work on becoming the best version of yourself, fostering a sense of confidence and self-reliance that can be incredibly empowering.
Strengthening Existing Relationships and Building New Ones
Without the focus on maintaining a romantic relationship, many single women find they have more time to invest in other meaningful connections. Friendships, family bonds, and community ties can become even stronger. You have the freedom to spend more time with people who truly matter to you, cultivate deep and supportive friendships, and build new relationships that enrich your life. This also includes the opportunity to engage with like-minded communities, such as book clubs, travel groups, or volunteer organizations, where you can connect with people who share similar interests and values.
The Freedom to Redefine Yourself
Without the constraints of a relationship, you can reflect on what you truly want from this chapter and the kind of person you wish to be. This could mean making changes—big or small—that align more closely with your values and desires. Whether it’s altering your lifestyle, changing your career, moving to a new city, or even completely reinventing your personal style, the sky’s the limit. You are the architect of your life, free to create a path that brings you joy and fulfillment.
A Sense of Adventure and Spontaneity
Being single in your 50s allows for spontaneity and adventure. You are free to make decisions on a whim, explore new places, and try new experiences that excite you without worrying about someone else’s schedule or preferences. From going on solo travel adventures to taking up new activities like dancing, cooking, or outdoor sports, there’s no limit to the adventures you can have. The thrill of spontaneity can lead to unforgettable memories and an enriched sense of self.
Embracing Solitude and Inner Peace
Singlehood also offers the valuable gift of solitude – a time to be alone with your thoughts, reflect on your journey, and find inner peace. Solitude doesn’t have to mean loneliness; it can be a time of deep reflection, spiritual growth, and personal clarity. Welcoming solitude can help you become comfortable with who you are, allowing you to foster a deep sense of self-acceptance and inner contentment that is incredibly powerful.
Let’s Chat:
Are you newly single? Are you a long-time single woman? What are the things that you enjoy doing? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.