Attraction

Stage one of dating is, of course, the first encounter. You may have locked eyes across a crowded room. They possibly held a door open for you and it led to the exchange of names and numbers. Perhaps you even rode the same transport route for months, and now that friendly smile developed into conversation and attraction. It may even be someone you met through an online dating site. Whatever the case may be, you have the initial butterflies. During this period, there are many dates and tons of messages sent back, and forth. This stage usually lasts a couple of months. It is a time to be flirty. Try to focus on the interactions you have with that someone new, rather than an expectation of them.

Reality

After about six months or so, your dates are going well. You are seeing each other pretty consistently and still having fun. This stage is where reality starts to set in. As you become closer, the honeymoon Phase ends, and now you begin to see little traits in them that annoy you. Unfortunately, this is where many new relationships come to an end. It is essential to communicate your needs, speaking about them clearly and respectively. You want to develop healthy conflict management skills here with your Partner.

Commitment

If you have made it to phase 3, it is where true love begins to hit. This phase is when couples commonly talk about being in an exclusive relationship. Here you may notice a release of oxytocin or the ‘love hormone’ every time your partner shows signs of affection, feelings of trust and contentment. But remember, while being invested in the new romance, take time to nourish yourself, and maintain your individuality.

Intimacy

The fourth stage in a relationship is vital. It is where you begin to let your guard down with your partner and show a level of vulnerability. The intimacy you now experience, ensures you nurture one another. Your needs will evolve as your relationship develops, so it is necessary to adapt to them.

Smooth-Sailing

The last stage of a relationship is where the blissful future may begin. You know each other well and are in it for the long haul. Of course, there will always be ups and downs in a relationship, but it is important to apologize when you are wrong and be forgiving. If you have taken each stage of your relationship slowly and grown together, then you are both in for a happy and loving future.

That ‘what are we’ conversation is never easy, but if you stay open and honest with your partner, you will be sure to have a happy and healthy life together. Using these five stages of dating: your relationship will be on the right path, and if you are single and searching, then look no further. There are plenty of dating sites and apps that cater to every niche and interest. Perhaps you are a fitness enthusiast, vegan, mature single or looking for a christian dating site.

There is an outlet for everyone. So get out there, get dating and find your soulmate!

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