Dating in your 20s can be a tough game.
You’re trying to find yourself, go to school. figure out what career you want while also trying to figure out who you want to be with.
It is extremely pressing trying to “figure out your life” and still be able to find romance and companionship.
This often results in getting into situationships that don’t serve us, moving too fast, and settling for relationships because that’s what everyone around us is doing.
It’s so important to remember that just because this is what you see happening around you – do not panic and settle into something that can affect every aspect of your life.
Leaving the question of how does one navigate dating in your 20s?
Here are some ways to do so:
1) Slow Down:
It’s important to take a step back and not rush into anything. Finding the right person to date isn’t a race, but rather a marathon that takes patience and insight. Slow down and spend time getting to know the other person and yourself before deciding whether this is a good fit or not. Don’t settle for mediocrity.
2) Don’t Ignore the Red Flags
When it comes to dating everyone is trying to put their best foot forward. However, if you’re noticing certain things that are making you feel uneasy, don’t ignore them. Don’t downplay your gut feelings and be honest with yourself about what is working and what isn’t.
3) You’re Too old to be Playing Games
Your 20s are a beautiful time to be stuck in situationships, game playing, and back-and-forth banter. There are so many other things you can put your energy into during this time that have someone else suck your time and energy away.
4) Set up Boundaries Early On
While dating in your 20s, it is important to establish boundaries early on that you feel comfortable with. This could be anything from not wanting to talk about exes, having an open dialogue about sex and consent, or even discussing when you both want to be exclusive.
It is important to have these conversations early on so that no one gets hurt down the line.
5) Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
Ask the other person questions in order to get a better understanding of who they are and how they function. Don’t be afraid to ask deep, thought-provoking questions and get to the root of who they are as a person.
It’s important to know the goals, hopes, and dreams the person you’re dating is looking for and an important factor to consider if it aligns with the things that you want and see yourself doing.
6) Don’t be afraid to date around
Dating in your 20s is a great time to explore and get to know different types of people. Don’t be afraid to go on multiple dates or even date multiple people at the same time. It’s important to remember that all relationships are different, and it’s ok if one relationship doesn’t work out – you can always explore other options.
7) Put Yourself Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Be willing to try new things in order to get to know yourself and the other person better. Don’t be afraid of taking risks or putting yourself outside of your comfort zone when it comes to dating – you never know where it will lead.
Go to that concert, that art exhibit, or take that cooking class together. It’s important to go out and have fun when you’re dating someone – because it allows you to explore their interests as well as get to know another side of them you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.
8) Find What Works For You
Just because it’s the norm to date in a certain way doesn’t mean that you have to follow suit – find what works for YOU personally and don’t be afraid to break the mold. You don’t need someone else’s validation or approval when it comes to your dating life – it’s all about what you feel is right for you.
If that means dating multiple people to figure out what you like and don’t like in a person or dating someone you met on a dating app, go for it.
Stick to your own personal convictions and don’t let anyone make you feel bad about the decisions that you make.
9) Learn How to be Alone
It is tough trying to be in a healthy relationship if you don’t learn how to be alone.
Take this opportunity to get in touch with yourself and learn to understand who you are as a person. Don’t feel rushed or pressured to jump into dating because of societal norms, but also don’t be afraid to explore your options.
Learning how to be alone is an important part of the journey toward finding a healthy relationship that works for you.
10) No One is that Busy
This is an important one – if someone says they’re too busy to see you, it’s most likely not true. Busyness is often used as a way to avoid commitment or intimacy. If they truly like you and want to pursue something with you, they will make time for what matters.
11) Don’t Settle
We all know that the dating scene can be tough and sometimes it’s tempting to settle for someone because you feel like they’re the best option. But don’t ever let yourself believe that settling is an option – you deserve someone who makes you happy, loves you, and respects you. Don’t compromise on your standards and values just to be with someone.
12) Realize That You Have Plenty of Time
Dating in your 20s is not a race – you don’t have to rush into any relationship or marriage. Take your time and make sure that the person you choose is right for you. The best thing about being in your 20s is that you are still young and have plenty of time ahead of you – so enjoy it and make the most of it.
13) Cultivate Meaningful Friendships
It’s important to have meaningful relationships with people of all genders, not just the opposite sex. Having strong friendships can help you learn about yourself and understand how to navigate the dating world.
Strong friendships are also a great way to connect with potential partners and get to know them in a different context before pursuing something more serious.
14) Choose Yourself
Your 20s are a beautiful time to explore and find yourself. Don’t think that you need someone to fulfill your life – it’s important to remember that the most important relationship is with yourself and if you can master that then everything else will fall into place.
Here are some ways you can do when you’re choosing yourself:
– Connect with yourself on a deeper level
– Look for ways to grow and challenge yourself
– Invest in activities that bring you joy
– Take care of your mental, physical and emotional health.
– Take risks
– Learn how to feel comfortable with the uncomfortable
Bottom Line
Dating in your 20s should be a beautiful time in your life, full of growth and exploration.
Try not to put too much pressure on yourself and remember that there is no right or wrong way to date.
It’s important to have fun, be confident in yourself and your decisions, and most importantly enjoy the journey.
Good luck!
Your friend,
Genesis
