Netflix and Chill: pretty standard, right? Whether it is going over to a friend’s house or watching some Netflix with your SO, Millennials love their Netflix. Netflix alone is just watching some "OITNB," "Parks and Rec.," or "House of Cards," but when your man asks if you want “Netflix and Chill,” you know what he wants.
When did Netflix become more than just binge-watching a TV show with some Doritos, and when did chilling become a code word for fooling around?
The answer is debatable but what isn’t is that this new booty call is negatively affecting your relationship. Whether you have a SO, or are enjoying some benefits with a friend, "Netflix and Chill" has a universal meaning.
For those with a boyfriend or girlfriend, when did a quick hookup become the norm? How often do you have romantic nights where you go to a movie and share some popcorn, or get all dolled up and go for a fancy dinner? Not to undermine the importance of cuddle sessions, which are mandatory and probably about 80 percent of what a relationship really is (or is that only me?!), but how exactly did "Netflix and Chill" become the go-to hangout for couples? When did people take the romanticism out of going out and instead begin to opt for a casual hookup with TV on in the background?
Of course, there is nothing wrong with a "Netflix and Chill" night every once in a while, however, you need balance. This balance consists of a mental chemistry, an intellectual connection with your SO, rather than just physical attraction and desire. This can mean spending time talking about life, plans, and pretty much anything and everything. Be wary about spending all your nights with Netflix in the background.
For those not in a relationship, "Netflix and Chill" can take on a whole new meaning. There is nothing wrong with casual friends-with-benefits, as long as the relationship is defined and feelings are off the table. As soon as feelings begin to exist, the casual hookup leads to a desire for more. In some cases, these feelings will blossom into a mutual attraction, beyond just physical, and a relationship can begin. However, beware of non-reciprocated feelings as these can cause more heartbreak and hurt than any hookup is worth.
So, the message is to be careful. Enjoying time with a person is both a physical and mental attraction. "Netflix and Chill," although enjoyable for both parties, is not the sole part of a relationship and don’t be fooled by this. As the term booty call is fading out, "Netflix and Chill" is rising up and taking its rightful throne in the love lives of Millennials everywhere.
Ask yourself, what does this say about our generation?
