Most guys may not want to abide to them, but, believe it or not, there is casual dating etiquette that we should all stick to. That’s not to say you’re not supposed to be dating multiple people until you find the right person to focus on, but it does mean you need to know how to play the game the right way.
Look, there was a day when many of us were “man whores,” balancing various girls each night by texting them and, basically, putting out a line and hook to see which one would nibble at our charm first. Sure, it was fun — and, undoubtedly, successful — but, as we get older, we look back and kind of shake our heads at the lack of effort.
Casual dating etiquette is about being responsible, charming, fun and, most of all, means not acting like a jackass. No guy wants to be labeled a fuck boy, so we’ve got ways to casually date the right way — and tell you why it’s important to play by these rules.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of girls
It’s no secret that we all have a “type” of girl that we often look for or end up dating in the end, and that’s OK. Personally speaking, it’s always a naturally pretty girl with brown eyes, brown hair and is petite. But, when your’e causally dating, don’t be afraid to switch it up and experiment with girls whom you might otherwise not think you’d date. Go for a taller girl than you’re used to. Take a blonde out instead of a brunette. Casually dating is a time to try different things and step out of your comfort zone a bit.
Be honest about what you’re looking for
This goes beyond just all the girls you’re dating, but, most importantly, with yourself. You may really be into a girl who just isn’t looking for a relationship, but you are. Rather than try to sway her decision and get burned down the road when she holds true to her stance, tread lightly and see if it’s worth exploring a friendship with her over something more intense. When it comes to causally dating and being honest with the girls, don’t tell them what they want to hear; that’s just manipulative and, in the end, will lead to a messy situation.
Stay safe when having sex
Let’s be clear: you should always be practicing safe sex no matter what type of relationship you’re in. That said, it’s even more important when casually dating, because, chances are, you’re sleeping with multiple people and opening yourself up for opportunity of contracting something — and/or passing it on to others. Before you even consider sleeping with multiple partners, though, be upfront about sex in a casual relationship, deciding if it’s what you and the girl(s) want, and respect the decision without pressuring or being pressured to stray from that.
Actually go out and get to know each other
It’s great to Netflix and chill and casually date without much effort, but that’s far from proper etiquette. Instead of being lazy and being OK with making out about 20 minutes through some TV show or movie, go have fun with multiple dates, experiencing new things together and seeing if the girl you’re with is worth more of your time. Of course, that’s assuming you’re looking for a relationship and not just staying casual, which is cool either way. Going out will not only be good to know her better, but you’ll find out a lot about yourself and your interests, too!
Give the same respect you expect in return
Casually dating etiquette only works when you respect the girls you’re actually dating on a regular basis. For instance, if a girl named Stephanie is over-texting and moving way too fast, be open with her and tell her that’s not the type of relationship you’re looking for. And if Amy is bombarding you with details about her life and you’re just not ready for it, you owe her a conversation about how it makes you uncomfortable talking to her about such things. Drama and a deep emotional connection may come from casually dating down the line, but the whole point is to have fun and experience different people, not assume the role of a boyfriend with every girl you take out. However, communicating and respecting her by being honest is the best approach, not ghosting, ignoring or completely blocking her to avoid such conversations.