Dating in your 20s can be confusing and overwhelming. With so many options and new dating trends popping up every day, it can be hard to figure out what you want and what you’re actually getting. One of the most common dating trends in today’s culture is the “situationship”. If you’re not sure what a situationship is, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
What is a situationship?
You are in a “situationship” when there is a lack of clear boundaries, expectations, and commitments. You are more than friends but are afraid to put a label on it. It’s a gray area between a casual hookup and a committed relationship.
Let me give you an example. Say you’ve been seeing this guy for a few months, and you really like him. You go out on dates, hook up, and text each other regularly. But when your friends ask if you’re dating, you’re not quite sure what to say. You’ve never had “the talk” about what your relationship actually is, and you’re not sure if you’re exclusive or just casually dating.
That is a classic example of a situationship. It can be confusing, frustrating, and leave you feeling unsure about where you stand with the other person. It can be tough to navigate, especially when you’re not sure if you’re on the same page as them.
So how do you know if you are in a situationship? Here are some of the telltale signs that you might be a situationship?
#1; You’re Not Sure Where You Stand
Have you ever found yourself in a relationship where you’re not quite sure where you stand with your partner? Maybe you’re not sure if you’re just casually dating, exclusive, or in a committed relationship. If so, you might be in a situationship.
In a situationship, there is a lack of clarity about the relationship status. Your partner might send mixed signals or avoid having “the talk” about what you are to each other. Your partner may avoid labeling the relationship or using titles like “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”. This lack of clarity can be frustrating and make you feel like you’re constantly guessing or walking on eggshells, leaving you unsure of what to do next.
#2; You’re Not a Priority
One thing that can be a real downer, is feeling like you are not a priority to your partner. You feel like you are constantly putting in effort and not getting it back.
In a healthy relationship, both partners prioritize each other and make time for one another. However, in a situationship, one partner may not prioritize the other person in their life. They might cancel plans at the last minute, not include you in important events, or be unreliable. It might even go as far as them prioritizing their friends or other commitments over spending time with you. This can leave you feeling undervalued and unimportant, which can be damaging to your self-esteem and happiness.
#3; You Don’t Spend Quality Time Together
We all know that spending quality time is important, so if you find yourself in a situation where you are hooking up, but you’re not spending much quality time with your partner, then you are in a situarionship.
In a situationship, you might be seeing each other regularly, but the time you spend together might not be meaningful or fulfilling. Maybe you’re only hanging out late at night or just hooking up without really connecting emotionally. You only see each when it’s convenient.
#4; You’re Not Exclusively Dating
If you’re in a situation where you’re seeing someone but you’re not exclusively dating, it might be a sign that you’re in a situationship.
You two might be going on dates, hanging out, or hooking up, but you’re not officially exclusive. When you are in a situationship, you might feel like you’re dating, but your partner is still using dating apps or going on dates with other people. This can be hurtful and confusing, especially if you’re looking for a monogamous relationship.
#5; You’re Not Moving Forward
In a healthy exclusive relationship, both partners should be moving forward together, meaning, if you’re in a situation where you feel like you’re stuck in a rut and not progressing, it might be a sign that you’re in a situationship.
You might feel like you’re not moving forward in the relationship or that you’re stuck in a certain stage. Maybe you’ve been seeing each other for a while but they’re not willing to commit or take the relationship to the next level.
In a situationship, there is usually a lack of progress or growth, with no hope of getting any closer to a deeper commitment or a future plan. This can be frustrating and discouraging, especially if you’re hoping for a long-term relationship.
#6; You’re Not Happy
Ultimately, the most significant sign that you’re in a situationship is that you’re not happy. In a situationship, you might feel like something is missing or that you’re not getting what you need from your partner. Maybe you’re not feeling appreciated or respected, or maybe you’re just not having fun together like you used to.
If you’re feeling confused, undervalued, unfulfilled, or unhappy, it might be time to reevaluate.
A word from Omihoop
If you have noticed any of these signs, then you might be in a situationship. Unless a situation is the type of relationship that you want, it’s essential to talk to your partner and have an honest conversation about your feelings and expectations. If your partner isn’t willing to commit or meet your needs, it might be time to move on and find someone who is.
Remember, you deserve to be in a happy, healthy relationship where you feel valued and loved and sure of your future. Don’t settle for less than you deserve. If you need help or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a professional for support. You deserve to be happy, and it’s never too late to make a change.
