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How to have a successful short-term relationship
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Interested in short term relationships? You've come to the right place! Short-term relationships are super popular right now, and we've compiled all the info you need into one easy guide. We'll explain how short-term romances are different from long-term relationships, how you can have a short-term relationship successfully (if that's what you want!), and answer all of your other burning questions. Read on for more.
Things You Should Know
- In a short-term relationship, there are no long-term commitments or expectations about starting a future together.
- Typically, short-term relationships can last as little as a week or up to a year, whereas long-term relationships may end up in marriage or life-long fulfillment.
- The lack of commitment in short-term dating can help you understand your dating preferences, boundaries, and future expectations.
Steps
Section 3 of 5:
How to Have a Short-Term Relationship
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Be clear about your intentions upfront. When going into a short-term relationship, it’s best to let your potential partner know what you hope to gain from the relationship as soon as possible. Lay down the ground rules—are you both allowed to see other people? Will the relationship have a definitive end? This is an excellent way to protect yourself and your emotions. [5] X Research source
- For instance, if you’re using a dating app like Hinge, put that you’re only interested in short-term dating somewhere in your profile. This way, potential matches will know what to expect before they message you.
- In other words, don’t leave them guessing about what you want, as this could lead to misunderstandings later. [6] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
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Be respectful of one another. Just because you’re not fully committed to the relationship doesn’t mean you can disregard your partner’s feelings. Feelings can be hurt in any relationship, so pay attention to your partner’s emotions as well as your own. [7] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
- Set boundaries for the relationship and discuss them with your partner. Then, ask them to do the same. For example, maybe you only want to hang out a few nights a week so you have time to see your friends and family. [8] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
- Communicate openly and honestly with your partner, regardless of how long you’re together, to stay in tune with their emotions. For instance, vocalize what you like and dislike sexually with your partner before heading to the bedroom, or express if something they said hurt your feelings.
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Meet different people. One of the advantages of short-term dating is that you can experience multiple romantic partners in a short amount of time. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, mingle, and experiment romantically. After all, short-term dating is all about finding yourself. [9] X Research source
- While experimenting is fun, remember to practice safe sex , especially when you’re not in an exclusive relationship.
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Set a time frame. While this step isn’t crucial, it can help maintain boundaries in the relationship. For instance, maybe you met someone cute on vacation and want the fling to end when you get back on the plane. When the relationship ends is totally up to you and your partner; just make sure you both agree on when that is.
- It’s perfectly okay to move on from the relationship once it’s no longer serving you. Short-term relationships can last 1 week, 1 month, or 1 year—it all depends on your needs.
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Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about dating, check out our in-depth interview with Lauren Sanders .
References
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7853474/
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805663/
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7853474/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/why-bad-looks-good/202206/does-casual-dating-prompt-relational-commitment
- ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/relationships-tips-for-success
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/relationship-help.htm
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/tips-for-finding-lasting-love.htm
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/setting-healthy-boundaries-in-relationships.htm
- ↑ https://thepleasantrelationship.com/casual-dating/#Casual_Dating_Rules
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805663/
- ↑ https://thepleasantrelationship.com/casual-dating/
- ↑ https://thepleasantrelationship.com/casual-dating/
- ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/how-long-should-it-take-to-get-over-my-ex
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/dealing-with-a-breakup-or-divorce.htm
About This Article
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