5 STAGES OF DATING – When it comes to dating, there are 5 stages to watch out for. The early stages are filled with excitement and possibility, and you may think you have found your soul mate. But these relationships are not long-term, and you need to be careful not to commit yourself too quickly. These stages include Attraction, Reality, Commitment, and Intimacy.
Attraction
The key to creating a happy relationship is to respect your partner’s boundaries. According to Dr. Margaret Paul, a psychologist and relationship expert, initial physical attraction is a poor indicator of success. After all, physical attraction can be fleeting and even lead to feelings of abandonment. Similarly, the tendency to be sexually promiscuous in a new relationship can increase the risk of abandonment.
In dating, the process of attraction begins with finding someone who appears attractive to you. Initially, this attraction is superficial and usually revolves around physical appearance. Later, when the attraction is more intense, it can lead to infatuation. Attraction can be a key to a happy relationship if both partners have similar attributes.
Reality
Depending on how long you’ve been together, the first stage of a relationship may last for three to four months. During this stage, you’re still figuring out whether you’re compatible and want to stay together long-term. You’ll be going everywhere together, watching the same movies, and sharing odd opinions about restaurants. You’ll also be figuring out where you want to take your relationship. But you shouldn’t lose your sense of individuality during this stage. In fact, you should move slowly and consider your future plans carefully.
In this stage of dating, you’re aware of your differences and have learned to listen to each other’s differences. This allows you to have uncomfortable conversations without attacking each other. You’re also more comfortable with each other, and you’re enjoying yourself again. At this stage, you’ll often fall in love with your partner.
Commitment
Commitment is an agreement made between two people to stay together for a certain period of time. Often times, it comes with expectations that the partners don’t express, but nevertheless they have. For example, in a committed relationship, couples would not plan their holidays together on the first date. Instead, they schedule them over time. It is also important to allow each other some freedom.
Commitment can look different for different people. Some prefer monogamy, while others prefer open relationships where both partners are free to date other people. Regardless of the type of relationship, both partners must have some level of commitment to the relationship in order to remain happy.
Intimacy
The first stage of dating is the fantasy phase or the honeymoon period. During this time, you may feel that your new partner is the perfect match. You may have met them at a party, on the internet, or even over the phone. The honeymoon phase can last anywhere from a few months to two years. In this phase, you will discover each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
In the early stages of a relationship, two people become increasingly dependent on each other and feel like they have merged their identities STAGES OF DATING. You may even meet the other’s family. This stage also involves you sharing intimate secrets and information about past traumas. However, it is crucial to remember that in early stages of a relationship, you should still retain a sense of yourself. Otherwise, you might end up thinking that you’ve found the one.
Financial disputes
Financial disputes are one of the biggest causes of stress and breakups in relationships. Some couples choose to avoid discussing money until several years into the relationship. However, there are ways to make the topic more acceptable and resolve the problems. First of all, it is important to realize that financial disagreements are not always about money. They can be caused by deep-seated psychological issues.
Keeping a sense of self
Keeping a sense of self is essential to building a happy relationship. This means being aware of your needs and well-being, and being kind to yourself. It also means finding time for yourself, and expressing boundaries. It also means staying positive. If you’re unhappy, you’ll feel less satisfied with your partner.
A healthy sense of self is crucial in all relationships. When you know your worth, it’s easier to communicate and develop intimacy. When you’re confident in your own abilities, you’re less likely to be prickly and cynical. As a result, you’ll feel more confident in yourself and attract more attractive partners.
