Dating, derived from date according to my assumptions, is when the relationship is moved from the phone and possible house visits to more public settings, or dates. There is more conversation, of course, but this tests your toleration for one another and you see if you like the vibes you’re feeling and how you two interact with one another. Dating is a big step. Talking can be just as big and has become bigger as the years have passed and younger generations have decided to spend more time getting to know one another outside of the public view before or instead of dating, but dating can put everything at a standstill. Some relationships do not go beyond dating. Two people enjoy one another's company, you’re feeling each others vibes, and you guys are completely contempt with just having fun and enjoying what it is you two are doing. Things may not be too serious between you guys, there may be other priorities that prevent you from being more serious, you could just want someone to chill with from time to time, or you may be letting life take its own course and you guys have decided to go with it. Whatever the reason may be, dating is where it is at for right now, and that is fine. Not everyone goes into relationships with goals. Dating can be the spot you feel comfortable at now and it could also be the hold up toward moving forward. Some people get stuck here when one person thinks things are great and the other wants more or less. Some people date for the purpose of marriage and if they can’t see themselves being serious with you or marrying you then dating may be where it all ends. In the case that the two agree on more, a title is usually established indicating that things are serious between you two.
There has always been a title for what you have going on. The title could be friends, friends with benefits, or some pet name that signifies to one another what it is between you guys. The title I am referring to that indicates something more serious is girlfriend/boyfriend, man/girl and so forth. While this may be ones confirmation, this can be another stop in the path. Just because there is a title established, it doesn’t mean that marriage is in the future. Some people want someone that they can build a common law, so to say, life with. Boyfriend and girlfriend could be the end with some, while marriage maybe what others are gunning for and the reason why they date. What the ultimate goal is should be determined while talking and dating. I know some of us have age limits on some goals, but realistically, marriage and relationships do not have limits. Minds can change and you may find yourself wanting more or less from someone. It seriously just depends on the person’s wants and needs at that moment in their life. “Different strokes for different folks.”
Happy Dating,
SP