Casual dating, contrary to what some people think, is not always all about sex. It could be. In some cases, people are looking for “friends with benefits” who also happen to go out to dinner or for drinks. For others, casual dating simply means going out with someone who interests you with no real motive to take things to the “next step” that will typically follow in the relationship patterns. It is essentially about making sure you are keeping your options open. It means you are playing the field to determine what you want. Maybe casual dating is all you want. There is nothing wrong with that.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Casual Dating?
If you have ever been in a serious relationship, you know that it’s not all sunshine and roses. It takes work, and that means serious talks about where things are going and what you are doing. You need to commit in a serious relationship, and essentially, you are giving up a part of your freedom when you do that. With casual dating, you do not have to worry about any of that. If it gets to that point with someone that you have been dating casually, it’s not casual, is it?
With casual dating, you do not have to date someone who is the typical type of partner you would have. It is time to experiment in different ways. You can go out with people who look different, who have different careers or aspirations, and the types that you wouldn’t normally date. It’s time to have fun.
One of the things that you need to do when it comes to casual dating is be honest with the people you meet and date. They need to know that it’s just a casual thing, as well. If they don’t, it could mean hurt feelings later. Being honest early is always the best policy. Maybe things could develop in the future, but that is not the attitude to have when you are casually dating. Things get messy if you do.
Get Out
One of the other things you need to remember with casual dating is that it is about going out, not about doing “couple things” at home. One of the dangers of casual dating is that it will eventually lead to being a couple. By cooking for the other person at your place or their place, or staying home with them to watch movies, it leads to feelings of being a couple. This is the opposite of casual dating. Make sure that you actually go out when you are dating.
Always Be Respectful
Never treat people as if they could be replaced. Just because it is a casual date, this does not mean that you should treat them as interchangeable. Treat them well and be honest, as mentioned. If there is no chemistry, be honest. Never lead someone on, especially when you are supposed to be casually dating.
While casual dating might not be right for everyone, many people today swear by this type of dating. It tends to be easier and there is less emotional entanglement.
