Every relationship starts with dating. Dating is the first parameter that you need to cross in order to be in a committed relationship with someone. It helps you get to know someone better, like what they want in life, how they think, and much more than you could learn in any other way. But have you ever thought about how your life would be if you just kept dating and did not fall for a relationship? Well, let us help you know which one is better for you!
1. Commitment
One distinguished feature between dating and staying in a relationship is commitment. While during dating you don’t need to be exclusive with someone, a relationship demands devotion. When you are officially with someone, you tend to introduce them to your friends, family, and your circle. These obligations might seem a little too much for some and therefore they prefer dating over being committed.
2. Expectations
Another major differentiator between the two is expectation. When you are in a romantic relationship with someone, you inherit certain expectations from them. You might want them to call you back after dinner, take you to the movies, get you your favorite meal, or spend quality time with them. However, dating someone does not come with these obligations, allowing you to live your life on your own terms.
3. Intimacy
When you are dating someone, you tend to keep things lighter. A few kisses here and there but nothing more than that. Typically, on dates, people enjoy going out for meals and spending quality time together without actually diving into intimacy.
But with relationships, there comes the need and desire to be intimate with your loved one. Hugging, kissing, cuddling, sex and other forms of intimate moments get you closer to your better half. However, this is not usually the case when you are just dating someone.
4. Priorities
Dating is a start for a possible relationship. When you date, you simply get to know the person and decide if you are ready to be in any form of commitment with them. This does not mean they become your priority. It simply makes them a part of your life whom you adore.
However, when you are in a relationship, your love interest becomes your priority. They become the center of the plans you make, trips you take, outings you opt for, and even clothes you buy. This change in priority does bring a big shift in your life too.
5. No Place for Infidelity
Without a doubt, infidelity is something that does not have a place in a relationship. When you are officially committed, there is no looking around. Loyalty comes first and it binds you to one person till the time your relationship stays.
But in the case of dating, as there is no exclusivity, you are open to seeing others. Casual dating helps you explore your options and find a suitable match too.
While these are some of the highlighted differences between dating and relationships, other factors also play a role in making them distinct in their own ways. In short, both are fun in their own ways. If you only want to explore and have fun before getting committed, then keep dating. But if you have found the one and are ready to give it all, then don’t overthink, dive into the relationship and enjoy the journey!