"Over the past three years, I've been dating super intentionally; I've been looking for a relationship that'll add to my life. I do want to marry, and I want a relationship where we're both invested in exploring long-term potential-no situationships. My hope is to find someone kind, respectful, and confident (a fairly inclusive set of criteria), which has allowed me to keep an open mind in meeting different kinds of men and not sticking to a "type.""
"Some guys have been immediate nos. Others have been nice-our conversations are okay, and we seem aligned on priorities-so I'll go on a couple of dates to see if a spark develops. But the spark simply isn't developing. I know not to expect fireworks right away. But after a few dates, I'm not excited to see them anymore. If I sense someone is feeling a connection but I'm not, I'll usually end it so as to not lead them on."
I am 26 and have been single for seven years after two brief, tumultuous college relationships. Single life has been fulfilling, with improved family and friend relationships, career progress, travel, and new hobbies. For the past three years I have dated intentionally, seeking marriage and a partnership invested in exploring long-term potential rather than situationships. My criteria are kindness, respect, and confidence, and I have remained open-minded about types. Some prospects are immediate nos; others seem aligned on priorities but fail to generate a spark after a few dates, so I end things rather than lead people on. I have felt attraction before and am uncertain whether expectations are unrealistic or whether I am missing usual romantic feelings.
Read at The Atlantic
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]