9 Ways To Date Without Getting Into A Serious Relationship

2024 Author: Steven Freeman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 08:15

This article was originally published on HelloGiggles.com.

Do you have the dating game down to a science? Yeah, we didn't think so! Since dating is NOT easy, we've discovered 13 ways to date without getting into a serious relationship, for all of you who want to keep it relaxed.

While some people are looking to be in a committed relationship, others just want to be casual, and that's totally okay. The downside, however, is that things can quickly turn serious, and if you're not ready to date one person, you need to know how to handle it.

Keep reading below for our tips to keeping your relationship casual and cool. Trust us, it takes some planning.

1. Communication is key

From the very beginning of any relationship, talking is a must. When you communicate your expectations for this budding relationship, you avoid awkward encounters, hurt feelings, or mixed signals.

2. Be upfront

If you're into online dating, mention in the texting phase that you're just dating casually right now and not looking for a relationship. If your online match is looking for something serious, you're doing them a favor by letting them off the hook to find someone seeking the same things as they are.

3. Dating is an afterthought

If you are looking for a long-term relationship, you might take dating as seriously as a job interview, and that's great. But if you just want to date casually, put dating at the very end of your to-do list. If a cool human asks you out, great! If not, also great! Dating is now just a nice bonus on your otherwise full life!

4. Fly solo

Consider NOT bringing a plus-one to weddings or family functions. It might be easier (and more liberating) to fly solo at events that are typically reserved for couples. You're a single independent badass, and you don't need a +1!

5. Date other people

Dating other people helps keep things loose and stress-free, but don't feel pressured to go on other dates. You can date one person exclusively without it getting serious because those other "date nights" might be reserved for solo time. Do you!

6. Texting can be annoying

If you're only dating casually, you might not get a text back as quickly as you might from say, the love of your life. You have to be okay with not getting responses instantly. Yes, technology is tricky in this arrangement.

7. Shake up your date night locations

By switching things up constantly you keep things fresh and different. Dating will still feel like dating this way, rather than coupling-up.

8. Leave expectations at the door

This one is hard, even for a seasoned dating pro. You can't expect to have the perks of a significant other if you are casual and cool. Instead, you have let things go, and not expect everything to be perfect or make sense.

9. Don't plan too far in advance

Be spontaneous and take things day by day. It takes the pressure off you and bonus, many would agree that "living in the moment" is pretty healthy.

What are your dating dos and don'ts? Would you consider casual dates over a serious relationship?