Ladies, we need to talk. If you’ve recently found yourself obsessively scrolling through Pinterest wedding boards, strategically dropping hints about ring sizes, or dodging your Aunt Karen’s so when’s the big day? interrogation at every family gathering, you’re not alone. The pre-engagement phase is basically the Hunger Games of romance, may the odds (and the proposal) be ever in your favor.
But before you dive headfirst into the world of cake tastings and dress fittings, let’s hit pause. Marriage is great and all, but your personal happiness? That’s the real MVP. So, before you say “yes” to forever, say “yes” to yourself with these nine fun and practical ways to cultivate joy right now.
1. Date Yourself Like You’re on The Bachelorette
Treat yourself to fancy dinners, long walks on the beach (or just Target runs in fuzzy socks), and solo movie nights with zero judgment about ordering a large popcorn just for you. The more you love your own company, the more confident and content you’ll feel, no fiancé required.
2. Master the Art of Saying “No” (Without Feeling Guilty)
Your mom wants you to take up knitting so you can bond with Grandma. Your best friend wants you to do a 6 AM workout challenge. Your coworker wants you to attend a kombucha-making seminar. Politely decline and reclaim your time. Learning to say “no” now will save you from wedding planning burnout and future unsolicited in-law advice.
3. Find a Hobby That Has Nothing to Do with Wedding Planning
Look, we get it. Making mood boards is basically a full-time job. But developing a hobby that’s just for you (like painting, kickboxing, or learning to bake the perfect croissant) will give you a personal escape that lasts way beyond the wedding day.
4. Create a Financial Safety Net (Because Love Doesn’t Pay the Bills)
Sure, romance is priceless, but rent? Not so much. Whether it’s building a savings account, investing, or just learning how to actually stick to a budget, taking control of your finances will give you independence and peace of mind, two things that pair perfectly with love.
5. Learn to Enjoy Your Own Company (Without Your Phone)
If your idea of alone time involves endlessly scrolling TikTok, let’s change that. Try a solo coffee date without Instagramming your latte art. Take a walk without queuing up a podcast. It’s amazing what happens when you actually sit with your thoughts (spoiler: you become your own best friend).
6. Stop Seeking External Validation (Your Worth Isn’t in an Engagement Ring Size)
If you find yourself rehearsing the perfect “we’re engaged!” Instagram caption, take a deep breath. Happiness isn’t about likes, comments, or how well your proposal story plays out on social media. True joy comes from within, not from a perfectly curated Reel.
7. Address Your Emotional Baggage (Because Suitcases Should Be for Honeymoons, Not Trauma)
Whether it’s lingering insecurities, unresolved conflicts, or childhood issues you haven’t quite unpacked, now’s the time to work on emotional healing. Therapy, journaling, or simply talking things out with a trusted friend can do wonders for your mental well-being.
8. Strengthen Your Friendships (Because They’ll Be Your Lifeline in Wedding Chaos)
Your besties were there before the fiancé, and they’ll be there after, too. Make sure you’re nurturing those friendships now, because trust me, you’ll need them when your future MIL suggests putting her dog in the wedding party.
9. Enjoy the Present (Because This Phase of Life Is Pretty Freaking Awesome)
Being single-ish, independent, and in control of your own happiness is something to celebrate. Don’t rush through this time just to get to the wedding. Soak up the now, because once the guest lists and seating charts take over, you’ll wish you had.
Final Thoughts:
At the end of the day, your happiness should never be contingent on a proposal, a wedding, or even a person. Build a life you love before you say “I do,” and you’ll walk into marriage feeling like the main character, not just part of a couple.
Now, spill the tea! What’s the funniest or most ridiculous thing someone has said to you about getting engaged? Drop it in the comments, I need a good laugh.