Like all relationships, casual dating is something that will be different for every person. A lot of people ask whether there's a specific time limit on casual relationships or how long a relationship can be "casual" before it eventually becomes more serious. A general rule of thumb with casual dating is that how long you date anyone, for any reason, really depends on what you want and are looking for in terms of a relationship.

Time Doesn’t Guarantee a Stronger Connection

Some people may develop a stronger connection by spending too much time with a casual hookup or partner. Others may have that connection after too many encounters, no matter how much time has elapsed. Still, however, there are plenty of adults who can maintain casual relationships for months, and even years, in some cases, so long as it suits their needs and fits their lifestyle.

Casual dating is entirely different than traditional dating and relationships. There are usually rules among people who are involved in casual relationships, and some people may even lie about certain aspects of their "real life" or withhold information because it isn't relevant or important. If you're feeling a connection with a casual partner that's more than a "good time" vibe, you might want to discuss where things stand and whether it's time to call it quits or make a change. You should always start with open communication and a set of rules so that if either of you feels like the lifespan of your casual relationship has elapsed, you can discuss it openly at any point in time.

Setting the Terms

The key to enjoying the casual relationship to the fullest, for however long it lasts, and knowing when to exit gracefully or move to the next level, is to set the terms from the beginning. Both partners should agree upon, and be fully aware of, the terms of the casual hookup or dating arrangement. Discuss things like:

·       Whether or not you intend to be exclusive (most casual relationships aren’t)

·       What you are looking for or expecting from the relationship

·       How much time and effort you are willing to commit to the relationship

·       Whether regular meetings are permitted and how frequently

·       What to do if and when either party feels the "casual” is turning serious or things aren’t working out any longer

If may sound very formal, but when you have these things in place ahead of time, you will be able to fully enjoy the extent of your casual dating and hookups because you won’t have to worry about the "what ifs” and the "what happens next” concerns.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to "how long is too long" to date or hookup casually, that's a decision that's entirely up to you and the partner with whom you're involved. If you set parameters and terms ahead of time, you'll both be on the same page and can enjoy your casual relationship to the fullest extent, no matter how long it lasts.

Posted by: alicenaraa at 07:29 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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