So let’s get the facts straight here for a second.
What exactly does it mean to be casually dating someone?
What is casual dating?
“The bottom line is a hard-and-fast boundary around the depth of emotional intimacy and attachment.”
What is the point of casual dating?
Casual dating can sometimeslead to a serious relationshipand can be one of the earlystages of a relationship.
Casual dating vs. hooking up vs. friends with benefits.
Casual dating, hooking up, andfriends with benefitsare all related concepts but distinct in certain ways.
But “hooking up” and “friends with benefits” bothdefinitivelyinvolve some form of physical intimacy.
Tell your partners exactly what you want from the relationship.
Just because you’re keeping things casual doesn’t mean you don’t need todefine the relationship.
“Be as explicit in your communication as possible,” Henry recommends.
“What are the boundaries?
What actions or expectations would be crossing the line?
What kind of veto power is allowed?”
Be honest with yourself.
It’s OK if the answer is no.
“Check in with yourself often about whether this relationship is meeting your needs.
If not, speak up and let your partner know.”
Check in often.
I’m enjoying it, and I like keeping things casual.
Give each other space to voice any needs, any discomfort, or any suggested changes to the dynamic.
Just because things are casual doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care about each other’s feelings and needs.
Communicate if things aren’t going as planned.
Or perhaps your casual partner is asking fortoo muchof your time and attention than you’re able to give.
“Initiate a conversation about what you’re feeling and where you stand,” Henry says.
Stay true to yourself.
“There is still a stigma against casual dating, so be prepared for that,” Battle warns.
That’s why being super clear on your ‘why’ and communicating it can be really helpful."
Is a casual relationship worth it?
Dating doesn’t have to lead to a long-term relationship or marriage," Henry says.
“A person can be a serial casual dater in a very healthy and positive way.”
A casual relationship is totally worth it if what you want is something noncommittal and short-term.
How to know if casual dating is right for you.
If the benefits described above sound worth the risks, casual dating might be a good fit for you.
In general, casual dating requires someone who can enjoy an open-ended, nonexclusive relationship.
Just be patient enough to find it with the right person who wants the same thing."
