What comes first in your mind when you think about Valentine’s Day? Grand gestures of love or fancy gifts? Well, apart from being a love showcase day, Valentine’s Day is also an opportunity to kickstart your romantic journey, especially if you are in a complicated situationship. It’s a perfect time to have a deeper reflection on the nature of your romantic connections.
If you are someone who is navigating the complexities of a “situationship” — that gray area between casual dating and a committed relationship — Valentine’s Day could be the perfect time to take your connection to the next level. Here’s how to transform that lingering uncertainty into a clear, committed partnership
Assess Your Feelings
Before you start imagining your perfect relationship, make sure to assess your own emotions. Are you ready for more? Do you see the potential for a future with this person? Are you emotionally invested enough to make the leap? How do you feel about exclusivity, or are you comfortable with things staying as they are? After all, a situationship is nothing but a lack of clear expectations and a bunch of uncertainties. So, before heading forward take a step back and take a look at the bigger picture. Being honest with yourself will help you to approach the situation with clarity and confidence.
Also, while analyzing, do not assume the response from the other end on your own. Give them their chance!
Initiate An Open Conversation
I know situationship do not involve clear conversations. In fact, it relies on assumption. However, communication is the key to forming a healthy relationship. If you’ve been avoiding “the talk,” Valentine’s Day is the time to have it. This is a once-in-a-year chance for this heart-to-heart conversation as this love season encourages commitment and promises.
Approach the conversation gently, directly or indirectly. Anyway, let the other person know how you’ve been feeling and gradually express your desire to take your bond forward. To begin with, you can go like, “This is such a great time to be in love, right?”, “I feel like we’ve built something special”, or “I’d like us to take things seriously if you feel the same way.”
Whatever you choose to say, be prepared for a range of responses. It could be positive or negative. They might ask you for some time to think or they may be on the same page. Regardless of the answer, respect their feelings and take things slow.
Define Your Love Language
A situationship is an unformed relationship. You’re more than just friends but not a couple. However, clarity is essential when it comes to building a committed relationship. If both of you are open to the idea of becoming exclusive, discuss what a ‘relationship’ looks like to you. Talk about if you both want a long-term relationship, what are your expectations, what is your love language, set your boundaries, and most importantly, whether you two are ready to date each other only.
These conversations might feel overwhelming but it is a stage that eventually leads you to a sense of security and ensures you are on the same page if you move forward.
Learn to Accept
It’s important to recognize that not all situationships are destined to evolve into full-blown relationships. Remember, it’s you who have developed the feelings right now. Irrespective of your feelings, your partner may not be ready for a relationship at all or might need some time to think over your idea.
In this case, accept their response, respect their feelings, and allow them the space they need. It might or might not end your current terms. However, if they’re open to the idea of turning your situationship into a relationship, don’t rush things. Be patient as you both go through the transition.
Getting into a committed relationship isn’t a single-day job. It takes time, effort, and understanding in every step. Do not expect your relationship to be perfect from the very moment. So, it’s okay to take things slow to ensure both of you feel comfortable and confident
This Valentine’s Day: Act More, Speak Less
If you guys are moving forward, congratulations! Now, start putting in a little effort like action. Affirmation of words is important, but action speaks louder. If you want to switch from a situation to a relationship, you need to do the rightful actions that demonstrate your commitment. This means prioritizing your partner, being more consistent, being understanding, and showing affection in ways that go beyond physical attraction. You can plan romantic dates, send random sweet texts, give surprise gifts, and other little efforts that let your partner feel secure in a relationship. Remember, the right actions show that you’re committed to making the relationship work.
Celebrate Your Relationship on Valentine’s Day
If things work out as you want, do not forget to celebrate this new chapter of your life. And what’s better than Valentine’s Day itself? The day of love serves as a perfect occasion to kickstart your committed journey. You confessed your love, now take them on a date or dinner to make it a moment to remember forever. A little gesture goes a long way to infuse love into a bond!
Even if you’re not yet officially a couple by Valentine’s Day, you can still use the occasion to express your feelings and enjoy the moment together. After all, you still share something special! Also, it will serve as a step toward a potential relationship. Remember, relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding — all of which can start with the willingness to take that next step.
