Many people casually date with the intention of finding a good match and making them a long-term partner, but it can be hard to know when and how to transition from casual dating to a relationship.
Here are 10 signs that things are starting to get serious.
1. They’re Giving You That Look
Sometimes, you can just see in someone's eyes that they're looking at you as more than a friend or a fling. Someone will gaze at you with an expression of warmth and affection when they're starting to see you as a potential new partner. Maybe their eyes will linger on yours as you're sitting across the table from each other at dinner, or they won't be able to stop looking at you when you part ways. If you notice this and reciprocate those feelings, look back at them in the same way and enjoy the connection. You can save the words for later.
2. You’re Hanging Out More Than Once a Week
It's not a hard-and-fast rule, but if you're hanging out about once a week or more, chances are you really enjoy each other's company and want the relationship to continue. This doesn't necessarily mean things are becoming official, but if you want them to, consistent dates are a green light to start a conversation.
3. They’ve Introduced You to Their Friends
Most people don't introduce someone to their friends until they've gotten to know and like them. If someone does this, they probably think highly enough of you that they expect their friends will like you too. This kind of introduction might also mean that someone expects you to become a long-term fixture in their life. So, do your best to make a good impression because you may be seeing these friends more often!
4. You’re Texting Every Day
It takes a lot of effort to keep a text conversation going. Plus, it seems like most people resort to ghosting these days. So, if someone is putting in that time, chances are they're really into you. If you've got a good rapport going over text, that's something to enjoy, but make an effort to meet up more in person to gauge whether the relationship is the real deal.
5. You’ve Confided in Each Other
People usually only share personal information with others when they're comfortable with them. If someone you're dating has told you about a hardship they're facing, that's a sign that they trust you enough to see you as a potential partner. If they've been there for you during difficult times, that's also a great sign of kindness and care in the connection.
6. They’ve Shared Their Intentions for a Relationship
Not everybody who's casually dating is looking for a relationship, but if someone has stated outright that they are, chances are that they at least view you as a prospect. Some of the top dating sites, like Zoosk and OurTime, let you write what you're looking for on your profile. If they have this written upfront, that's a good sign too!
7. They Go Out of Their Way for You
If someone is willing to drive through rush hour traffic to see you, help you out with a difficult task, or cook dinner for you, they probably care about you and may consider you a long-term partner. Make sure you're putting in just as much effort if you feel the same way about them.
8. Your Dates Are More Than Standard Dates
When you're casually dating, going out for coffee, dinner, or drinks is normal. But if someone invites you on more elaborate outings—like hiking, dancing, concerts, or other connective activities—they may see your relationship as a bigger deal than just a casual fling. If they invite you on a trip, that's an even bigger sign that they really enjoy your company.
9. You Think About Them Constantly
Once someone is always on your mind, you can be sure that you have genuine feelings for them. It may be too soon to tell whether it's just infatuation or the relationship has legs, but at the very least, you know the attraction is there, and you're starting to picture them in your life.
10. You’ve Asked How They Feel About Getting Serious
Want to know why dating is hard much of the time? Because people don't communicate! If you know you're interested in becoming official with someone, the best way to find out if they're also interested is to ask them. If you're shy, consider the previously mentioned actions signals that you have the go-ahead to ask this question.
The Final Step
Once you're clear that there's long-term potential with someone who seems interested, it's time to let them know you see a future with them. You can hint at it by telling them how much you've loved spending time together or tell them more directly that you'd like to be together officially.
There are no rules for how a relationship should progress. It's only important that expectations are communicated and everyone is on the same page. As long as that's the case, you have reason to be excited.
