The sun is setting earlier, the nights are getting colder, and suddenly going out doesn’t sound as nice as staying in. You want to be all cozied up, maybe drinking hot coco, watching Netflix, and looking at your body pillow wishing it was an actual human. If you are starting to feel this way then you are ready for cuffing season.

According to Urban Dictionary cuffing season can be defined as:

"During the Fall and Winter months people who would normally rather be single or promiscuous find themselves along with the rest of the world desiring to be "Cuffed" or tied down by a serious relationship."

With it already being the end of October, the pre-season is over and it’s about that time to choose your partner. This idea sounds great, who doesn’t want a winter cuddle buddy, but there are only certain people who are able to go through with this. There is a lot that goes into finding the perfect cuff. But don’t worry here’s a guideline to help you get through cuffing season without it turning into shambles

1. The Preseason

Cuffing season typically starts in September until about end of November where people are on the prowl, creeping onto your radar so when the time comes they have a chance.

2. Time to choose your cuff

Stay away from someone you’ve been crushing on for a long time or an ex. Go for a cute acquaintance that you talk to here or there, or someone you know that being in a relationship wouldn't work out. Most importantly choose someone who you will have fun with because they’ll be around for a few months.

3. Get on the same page

No emotional attachments required. Just enjoy each others company, cuddle.. of course and go with the flow

4. Celebrate because you've been cuffed!

5. Do cheesy winter activities together

Go ice skating, seeing christmas lights, bake cookies, or have a snowball fights.

6. Have those cozy nights in

Snuggle up watch a movie or binge-watch your favorite series and drink coco by a fire, the classic “Netflix and Chill”

7. You have a date for all those Holiday parties

Now you don't have to worry about finding a date, you have someone to bring you some holiday cheer.

8. Be candid about the holidays

Talk about whether or not you decide to buy gifts for each other. You are spending time together but if it’s casual don’t make it more complicated then it has to be.

9. Keep the feels in check

If you start feeling some type of way figure out if your partner is in it for the long run as well. If not you can always stop the fling midway before the season is over.

10. Release and let them go

Finally winter dwindles away and it’s suddenly March, time to say goodbye.

Cuffing season doesn't always end in a happily ever after so don’t be sad when it’s over, but don’t turn away if something more arises. Cuffing season isn’t for everyone so before you embark on this journey make sure you’re up for it. Most of the time it’s temporary, so just keep that in the back of your head. Not all of us are about the cuffed life, and remember if it doesn’t work out there’s always next year!