To Boomers: In 2023, Dating & Being Attached Are 2 Completely Different Things

Last Updated on 2023-03-13 , 7:51 pm

Remember how the dating scene used to be? You ask a girl for her number, bring her on a date, and viola – if there’s chemistry, the both of you are in a relationship. It was simple, straightforward, and pretty cool if you ask me. (*hints*)

Here, take a look at a video of a love story set in the 90s:

However, as we move into the new generation, the process of romantic relationships begin to take a turn (for the better or the worse).

We see different terms being thrown around such as “casual dating” or even “no-strings-attached”. (What are those??) Yeap I get you.

Dating is so complicated nowadays, we don’t even know where to begin.

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In the Past

Dating means you’re off the shelf. Taken, period. Back then when you choose to go out on a date with this guy/girl, you’re already sending out a signal that you’re testing waters. Basically, dating is considered as the initial part of a relationship, which means it’s pretty exclusive.

The only difference between dating and attached is that dating has a clear boundary drawn between the two people. “See no touch” is applied here; there won’t be any physical affection involved. But technically, you’re (kinda) in a relationship, so you don’t have to worry about other suitors chasing after your Bae. (Thank goodness!)

The Present

It’s a different story altogether now. When someone tells you that they are dating, it can either mean that it’s “casual”, or “exclusive”. I’ll break it down to make things simple for you. Dating in the 21st century really messes with the word “Commitment”. You are in a relationship with a person only when you make a commitment to them. Whereas dating doesn’t mean that you are committed to that person.

It also blurs the boundary between the two, because it might involve physical affection. Basically, it involves two people, trying to get to know each other better. Pretty much hanging out just like friends, but with the idea of a romance stuck in their head, yet no commitment.

“Casual Dating”

What’s that, you might ask? Well, Casual dating is the first stage of any relationship.  It’s when people just date without any expectation of a commitment.  It’s a “getting to know you” phase where we’re not likely to invest much in the relationship or worry about how we feel about the relationship as a whole. You can literally date more than 1 person at one go. (What?!)

“Exclusive Dating”

How about exclusive dating? It is when two people begin dating with the expectation that your partner doesn’t date others.  This is more serious and sends the message that “I like you more than other people I’ve dated and feel like we have a special connection. I’m interested to see where this relationship can go.” That’s how people used to date.

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Personally, it’s really quite a headache to see our dating scene nowadays. With so many terms floating around, I’m so confused that I’m hitting myself in confusion. Oops. Wouldn’t it be cool if we try exploring the idea of dating in the past?

Just some penny for my thoughts. What do you think?