Since the beginning of time, it has been natural for an individual to be attracted to another individual and actively — or passively for some — try to pursue them. But, during this process of being interested in another human, a lot can get mixed-up and confusing. This is going to clarify several stages one may experience between two people begins.

Hanging out one-on-one

In this stage, the two individuals do not actually have to be romantically interested in one another, but allows time for the two to get to know each other better. This potentially platonic stage can lead to romantic attraction, but—again—does not have to stem from an initial romantic attraction.

Hanging out one-on-one is a great time to get to know someone better! It is specifically focusing your interest in a person in a one-to-one setting. Many confuse this for dating, but that is not so. Hanging out one-on-one with an individual may sometimes seem suspicious, but make sure to not assume anything until notified of any change in the relationship.

Going on a date

Going on a date is always fun! Going on dates is always fun! But, this does not mean it is a relationship. Going on a date or multiple dates is a level up from hanging out one-on-one. It is what happens after romantic interest sparks between two individuals. This stage is where you mutually see potential in something more than being just friends.

Going on a date constitutes that you both notice that the other person is attractive and you could see more than a platonic engagement in the future. But remember, this stage still does not decisively mean commitment. A person can go on dates with one person, but also go on dates with another person. Playing the field is often looked down on, but I personally think it’s good to hang out more intentionally with someone to better get to know them before committing to anything serious.

Dating

Oooh, the infamous taboo of dating, dating is a tricky one. When two people declare that they are dating this doesn’t automatically mean that they are in a serious relationship, in fact, dating doesn’t mean that two individuals are boyfriend/girlfriend.

Dating means that two individuals recognize compatibility and want to further their relationship. Dating means that the individuals see a potential serious future with each other and are being more intentional in the continuation of their relationship.

Being in a relationship

And here it is, being in a relationship! Being in a relationship means that the two individuals agree that they want a long-term, serious, married (in most cases) future with each other. This is where they become significant others, this is where the terms boyfriend/girlfriend are enacted, and this is where pet names develop more fully. At this stage, this is where two people become more certain they want to spend the rest of their lives with the other person, it is where they begin the process of becoming closer to oneness, this is when people begin to go steady.

So, now that you have all of this helpful information about the confusing different stages of dating/relationships, go and be bold! Happy dating and happy relationshipping!