Even when exclusivityisin the picture, sometimes people are still “keeping it casual.”

What counts as a serious relationship?

(Though for some people, those things might be important!)

Kelly Gonsalves

There’s usually a direct conversation about this, according to relationship therapistAimee Hartstein, LCSW.

Beyond this general framework, most of the other details are specific to the individuals involved in the relationship.

If you’re not sure where you stand with your partner, you should just ask!

Your time together is a sure thing.

“They text you back; they make and keep plans; so do you,” Melamed adds.

“Attendance is mandatory in a serious relationshipyou need to show up every damn day.

This is the first glimpse of that commitment.”

You’re going to make the time.)

You drop the formalities.

Most people want to make a good impression on their partner in the early stages of the relationship.

This is a sign that you would like to develop a deeper connection with your partner."

You begin to develop rituals.

Your sex life is evolving.

You know each other’s inner circle.

Caring about each other is an open priority.

There are no games here.

7. you might handle disagreements and conflicts.

“Serious relationships are both sturdy and resilient,” Cullins says.

“They can endure petty disagreements, hard conversations, change, and some forms of outside interference.

You two can openly talk about the nature of your relationship.

Seriouslyif you’re wondering whether your relationship is serious or not, just have the conversation.

If your partner is reluctant to talk about it, you have your answer.

But if you two are on the same page, the conversation will flow easily.