How long should you date someone before making your relationship official? I get this question a LOT as a dating coach. Typically my client comes to me single as a Pringle and after working together they meet a really awesome person. But then what?
There are quite a few factors that come into play when going from dating to a relationship. Here are my top 5 you should consider:
- Get Crystal Clear
Here’s the thing, you’ve got to decide what a relationship means to you. How else are you supposed to enter into something if you don’t have a clear idea of what it means?
Making it official does not mean you’re going to marry this person. It just means that you’re willing to stop looking elsewhere and make a commitment to get to know someone on a deeper level. But you need to have your vision of what that looks like so that you can make sure the other person wants that too.
- Timing Is Everything
Deciding when to make your relationship official is a personal choice between the two of you. Although, I’d say that between two to four months of consistently dating (hence the term consistently) is a reasonable to get to know someone.
You don’t need to know every nitty-gritty detail about them but you should feel secure and that you can trust them. It’s important to discuss with this person their comfort on taking dating to the relationship level. Sometimes people need more time or less time than others so it’s good to talk about it.
- Follow Your Damn Gut
What’s your gut telling you in regards to going from dating to a relationship? I’m not talking fear here but if something feels off. Or maybe for the first time it feels so right and you’re questioning that.
Your gut is your number one guide in relationships because it can steer you in the best direction. Whatever you do, follow it when navigating dating to a relationship. This will help build trust within so you can make the best decision that’s right for you.
- It’s a Marathon Not a Sprint
Pace yourself. One of the biggest red flags that I see early on in dating is moving too quickly. If you’ve been showered in gifts or seeing each other 24/7, I’d say take a moment to get out of the “this is too good to be true” high.
Dating takes time and so does building a healthy foundation of trust in relationships. Make sure to pace out getting to know this person while continuing to create balance in your personal life. Side note: There is no rush because if you’re truly meant to be with them then you will.
Remember that if you commit to a relationship you can always change your mind if you decide it’s not working out. Ultimately, you need to do what feels best for you and allow the rest to follow.
Want to see how I could help you with more dating or relationship tips? Learn here!