Are you finding it difficult to keep up with dating trends in 2022? We can all agree that the dating game has drastically changed more than ever/especially since the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve had to change our approach to dating which led us to online dating  apps  and  social media.

Whether you date keeping up with the new trends or old school, the stages of dating will always remain. In this article, we take you through the different stages of dating that you may experience at the beginning/during your dating journey.

Attraction 

The initial phase of any romantic relationship is definitely an attraction. This is where your “checking out” comes into play. Naturally, when there’s no attraction, the chances of anything progressing are basically zero.

When you’re attracted to someone, your body releases dopamine and adrenaline (hormones) which makes you crave your significant other’s attention and presence. This period lasts for the first few months and usually involves back and for texting long phone calls, and regular dates. Getting to know each other at this stage is vital in order to decide if things should be taken to the next level. Usually, by this point in time, most individuals are aware of their decision.

Realization

This is where the honeymoon phase slowly begins to wear off and the picture-perfect image of your partner fades away. Couples begin to truly “see” each other. The hormones start fading away and flaws, imperfections, pet peeves, and bad habits all come to light. You notice things you may have overlooked before. This does not mean that couples don’t like each other anymore or have lost feelings, it simply means that partners must now be supportive of each other and work through any conflict big or small. 

This stage requires partners to be extremely understanding and accommodating as most relationships tend to fail at this point. Once you’ve made it through this period there’s no going back. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows from here but dark clouds are out of sight.

Intimacy

This normally/typically involves the bond couples share with each other. You might assume that there is only physical intimacy when it comes to dating but there are other equally important forms of intimacy i.e. 

Physical intimacy – This type of intimacy is closely related to “getting between the sheets” and that may play an important role but physical intimacy is also shown through hand-holding, cuddling, hugging, and kissing. These small displays of affection bring about a feeling of closeness between partners.

Emotional intimacy – This is considered to be one of the most important forms of intimacy when it comes to dating and relationships. It involves partners sharing their personal feelings and deepest thoughts, taking time to understand each other, supporting, and being understanding towards one another, and displays of affection and care.

Spiritual intimacy – Although this refers to religious beliefs and thoughts, it can be taken a step further by sharing beliefs and values. Finding a way to align and bring together shared beliefs can go a long way for couples. It’s important that couples are aware of each other’s choices and beliefs to ensure that both partners are comfortable and on the same page.

Experiential intimacy – While most couples tend to be like glue sticks, sharing fun and meaningful experiences together is healthy and often encouraged. Book a trip, find a new date spot, or fun activity to do together.

 Making new memories to look back on is never a bad idea. 

 Attachment

Naturally, as human beings, we become attached to those that we care for deeply and hold a special place in our hearts. A lack of attachment can mean that there is uncertainty coming from one or both partners and this can lead to finding someone else to fill this void.  What may start as a friendship may lead to something much more if two people find themselves attached to each other. So, if you’ve reached this point while dating, there’s no doubt that you have someone irreplaceable in your life.

Commitment

Commitment is a big step for couples as they express their desire to be with each other more exclusively.

At this stage, couples should have a good understanding of their partner’s values, lifestyle, and goals for the future. There should be some sort of involvement and familiarity with each other’s family and friends. Partners have accepted and embraced each other’s flaws and imperfections and choose to be with each other anyway. It may sound scary like you’re signing a lifelong contract, but it just means that you have eyes for your person and your person only. You and your partner are ready for the beginning of a new journey with each other With the use of Daises Love.

No matter how many stages there are when dating, the one thing that really matters is whether you feel a connection with the person you’re seeing. There may be various stages when it comes to dating. Some may apply to you, and some may not. Dating cannot be defined by a single description as every person is not the same. The above-mentioned dating stages are just an overview of the dating cycle.