Are you stuck in a casual relationship that you want to take to the next level? If so, you are in the right place. I know that this can be intimidating, but I'm here to help you along the way. About a year ago, I was in the same position as you. I was seeing this guy just about every week. He would text me asking me to come over to his place. I would always say "yes," and that never failed. It was just an ongoing thing where we just went to his place and I am almost positive his friends did not even know I existed.

SPOILER ALERT: it has almost been a year and I have managed to make that relationship a serious one. I am best friends with his sister. He takes me out just about every weekend. His friends are now my friends. We see each other as much as possible. I am the happiest that I have ever been. The following steps worked for me and I am sure that they will work just as well for you!

Step 1: Ask to hang out more.

If you guys are only hanging out one night a week, ask about seeing each other maybe two times a week. If he/she agrees, this is a great sign and may mean that they are interested in you. Also, the more time you spend with someone, the more they get to know you, and the more they will like you.

Step 2: Try to hang out during daytime hours.

It is kinda weird to just hang out with someone exclusively at night. There are a few exceptions, such as if one of you work a full-time job. But, hanging out during the day definitely gives a *different* vibe.

Step 3: Go public.

Or at least try to. Ask if the other person will run errands with you or even go out somewhere with you. Assure them they you both can pay for your own food, drinks, etc. If they are willing to go, that is a good sign. If they offer to pay, that is an even better sign.

Step 4: Ask about their friends.

Just ask him about who he hangs out with, even if you already know because of social media. This opens up a chance for him to invite you to go somewhere with his friends. It also shows him that you are interested in his life, which will make him more attracted to you.

Step 5: DTR.

DTR aka define the relationship. Okay, so I know this sounds super scary. But seriously, you just need to ask the other person if they think this will turn into something more serious. Don't do it in a weird way. Just do it in a kind of casual way, as if you are asking for their opinion. This will definitely get them thinking about whether or not they want to actually commit. Depending on their answer, you will know whether to drop them or stick around.

Step 6: Be open.

This is so so so important. Just be open about what you are looking for, that way you aren't wasting anybody's time. Plus, they may admire your openness.

These are the steps I took to take my relationship up a notch, and I am happier now than ever. Remember, if you are in a casual relationship, but you want something more, you aren't trapped. You can leave whenever you want to.