4 Tips To Remember For Casual Dating

Casual dating is a widespread concept of the modern times. But for those who do not understand the rules, it can be a traumatic experience. All dates aren’t about friendships and all dates won’t result in marriage either. Dates initiate the opportunity for a love that could be transient yet instrumental in self-change; or better still, an affection that could lead to commitment and permanency. We take that risk on unknown paths of intimacy because they may just lead us to light in unexpected places.

* Dating and marriage

In India, unfortunately, dating is always perceived as a means to marriage. Dating meant ‘arrangements’ by well-meaning aunties at family weddings who would try to matchmake ‘compatible’ boys and girls. But today, casual dating has become a lot easier with Apps such as tinder, match.com and meetme. The difference is that casual dating is where guys and girls having common interests meet up to date, get to know each other and hang out. Sex is often on the menu. Marriage is not.

* New-age dates

Once the rules are clear in one’s mind, it’s easier to enjoy dating. We learn a lot about ourselves and other people; our likes and dislikes, apprehensions, fall outs, communication deficits and in many ways, our own reactions to rejections and disagreements. And all of this happens without any strings or commitment.Casual dating is a slightly less serious thing compared to meeting on a matrimonial site. Both sides are aware that the purpose is to have a partner to go out with for coffee and movies, and sex may be an added benefit. But a long-term relationship isn’t a priority.

* Not-so-casual

Truly, one cannot predict one’s own emotions; leave alone the emotions of another. Thus what starts off as casual dating could become serious for one or both partners. If this happens for both, there’s little reason to worry; however, if it is a one-sided case, there could be pain and suffering. Honesty and openness in communication is the key to success in any interpersonal relationship. There is no guarantee of permanent happiness or contentment in relationships but heartbreaks are imminent when one partner gets serious and the other isn’t. It is best for both partners to keep reiterating their intentions in the relationship and watch out for emotional attachment in case it is setting in. Emotions are better managed earlier on in the relationship before they get out of hand.

* Friends With Benefits

Casual dating can be a huge advantage for those looking for a partner at a later stage in life. In case a person is divorced or a widow/widower, casual dating is the best way to ‘check’ out a future partner. Thanks to casual dating sites, a man or woman can enjoy getting to know people from the opposite sex without the pressure of making a commitment. The best age to date casually is when one can take responsibility for one’s actions and their outcomes. There are always different priorities at different ages. Hence, dating at a later age when one is emotionally mature is more acceptable.