Yes, it is absolutely okay for guys to ask girls out on their own, without involving mutual friends. In fact, this is one of the most common and direct ways for people to express their interest in getting to know someone better and potentially starting a romantic relationship.
Asking someone out directly can be seen as confident and respectful, as it shows that you value their time and feelings enough to be straightforward about your intentions. It also allows the person being asked out to respond honestly and without any external pressure.
While asking someone out through mutual friends can have its advantages, such as getting insights into the person's interests or compatibility, it is not a requirement, and many successful relationships start with one person expressing their interest directly to the other.
If you're considering asking someone out, remember to be respectful, polite, and considerate of their feelings. Understand that not everyone may feel the same way, and it's essential to accept their response gracefully, whether it's a positive or negative one. Rejection is a normal part of dating, and it's crucial to handle it with maturity and understanding. If the person is interested, great! If not, remember that there are plenty of other opportunities to meet people and potentially find the right match.