Growing up, I was under the impression that once I was mature enough, I could date someone. I was not aware, however, that dating has become such a taboo for this generation. We are literally so scared of dating that our society has basically changed it to "talking". Trying to explain "talking" to parents makes us sound so stupid and we are all aware that that stage is basically just dating, yet we are just too afraid to put that label on it. Our generation is so scared of a little commitment that we have done everything possible to prevent it and in the process also shame those that are happy with who they are dating. The truth is, we need to stop and there are numerous reasons that we need to change this view of dating and relationships.
1. Showing how we cannot commit or be dedicated
By not dating and refusing to take that step, we are showing people we cannot be dedicated. Dedication is attractive, whether it be to employers, partners, or friends. Commitment is a skill and if you cannot master that, you may miss out on some important opportunities that come your way. Why are we allowing our generation to live in a world where this is looked at as a sign of weakness?
2. We should not be afraid of feelings
Why are we running away from our feelings? You go to school and you hear "don't catch feelings" or "HA you caught feelings" on a daily basis. Friends encourage other friends to hide their feelings because...you might end up getting hurt. That makes sense; instead of growing up and learning to deal with heartbreak, just ignore every little feeling you have and run away.
3. It's essential to figure out what you like
This is the thing with dating, you date someone because you think they may be a possible life partner, not just because you are lonely. If you find someone that makes you happier and can connect with you better, you leave. We are young, we will cause heartbreak and experience it ourselves and that is completely OK.
4. We need to learn these lessons
Our generation tries to announce that they believe that everyone comes into our lives for a reason, yet they are too scared to give chances. Yes, people come into your life to teach us lessons, so why are we running away from them? We're too scared to get hurt that we just want to skip right over it without learning the lessons that dating would provide us.
5. We need to stop shaming
Because our generation views dating as such a taboo, we are continuously shaming those who are happy in their relationships. If someone is happy with dating someone, no they are not wasting their life with being tied down. I am happy to see these people who have learned what 'love' is and are willing to take a risk for someone who makes them smile. We need to stop shaming other peoples' happiness when we cannot find our own.
I encourage happiness from within before jumping into dating a person, I respect a person who is still trying to figure themselves out, but I also encourage feelings. Fall in love, make mistakes, cry, laugh and learn to commit. Feelings are not a taboo. Stop spreading, "don't catch feelings" and stop telling people they cannot explore the world if they are "tied down" because while you do that you also might be missing out on some great fun and adventures with people who could mean a lot to you.
