10 Things to Do This Month to Get a Date

Let’s be honest: dating can feel like a full-time job, especially when you're trying to do it with intention, faith, and actual human decency. But the good news? You don't need to overhaul your entire life this month. Sometimes it just takes small, consistent steps to make big shifts in your dating life. Whether you're trying to meet someone new or actually land a date with that one person you've had your eye on after Mass, here are 10 practical, faith-filled things to do this month to move things forward.

1. Say a Novena for Clarity and Courage
   Start the month with prayer. Choose a novena - maybe to St. Raphael (patron of happy meetings) or St. Joseph (a model of virtue and strength). This isn’t a magic formula to get a date, but it helps you align your desires with God’s timing and prepares your heart for action.

   
   

2. Get Social at Parish Events (Even If It's a Little Awkward)
   Look at your parish bulletin or local Catholic young adult group calendar and go. Whether it’s Theology on Tap, a holy hour, or a random potluck, say yes to things you might usually talk yourself out of. The more people you meet, the more chances you have to connect with someone in a natural, relaxed way.

   
   

3. Refresh Your Wardrobe (Within Reason)
   You don’t need to change your style, but maybe it’s time to retire the faded retreat T-shirt and lean into clothes that make you feel confident and approachable. Dressing with dignity and a little effort says, “I care” without shouting, “I’m desperate.”

   
   

4. Tell Your Friends You’re Open to Being Set Up
   A lot of Catholics are quietly hoping someone will play matchmaker, but no one will know unless you say something. Let your trusted friends know you’re open to meeting someone new, and give them permission to set you up.

   
   

5. Go on One Non-Serious, Low-Pressure Date
   Not every date has to be a full-on discernment retreat. Ask someone out or say yes to someone even if you're not 100% sure. Go for coffee, a walk, or to a festival. See it as practice and connection, not a final decision on marriage.

   
   

6. Practice Flirting (Yes, Really)
   Flirting doesn’t mean being fake or weirdly forward. It means smiling, being curious, giving someone your full attention, and showing that you're interested. It's okay to make eye contact, laugh at their jokes, and find a reason to talk again.

   
   

7. Reevaluate Your “List”
   If your standards are so specific that even St. Joseph or the Blessed Virgin wouldn’t qualify, it might be time to revisit what really matters. Focus on character, virtue, shared faith, and attraction - don’t get stuck chasing perfection.

   
   

8. Engage Online… But Like a Real Human
   Sign up for a Candid event or two - and be open! Be curious, ask thoughtful questions, and don’t be afraid to show a little personality.

   
   

9. Invite Someone to Do Something You Genuinely Enjoy
   Think of a fun or meaningful activity - a museum day, a farmer’s market, a summer concert - and invite someone along, whether it’s romantic or platonic. Shared experiences deepen connection and can naturally lead to more.

   
   

10. Spend Time Becoming the Kind of Person You Want to Date
    Dating isn't just about finding the right person; it’s about becoming the right person too. Take this month to work on your relationship with God, grow in emotional health, and reflect on how you give and receive love.
    
    

Dating doesn't have to be a pressure-cooker of expectations and anxiety. If you take intentional steps, open your heart to God’s timing, and say yes to showing up more fully this month, you might just find yourself on a date - or at the very least, feeling more ready for one.