Let’s face it: talking about where you are in a "relationship" (I'm using this term loosely) can be really awkward. Putting yourself out there can make you feel vulnerable. Heck, sometimes you just procrastinate to ask because you are scared to hear the answer! With that being said, let all of us gather ‘round (not literally) to read and relish in these three oh-so relatable pre-label happenings that are taking place in this world. It’s awkward already, isn’t it?
1. Introducing your significant other to friends and family.
“Hey, Karen. It’s so nice to see you again! This is my _________, Brad.”
Unfortunately, we’ve all done this; we’ve drawn a blank on what to introduce our S.O. as. We’ve also made weird eye contact with our S.O. while saying it. In that case, my safest suggestion is to just introduce them as a friend. It’s also a way of telling your S.O. that you are not clear on the status of your "relationship." If your S.O. wants to confirm things, they may ask you about it afterwards. If they don’t, well, maybe they are not looking for a labeled relationship!
2. Fishing for information on your status.
“So if I were to, hypothetically, go out tonight and I, hypothetically, met someone who wanted to buy me a few drinks, I would tell them ... No?”
Fishing for information is one of the biggest things I’ve noticed throughout the years. It happens to be the easiest way to try and dig up intentions from the person you have been seeing, without actually having to confront them. However, fishing for information can also lead the two of you to not be on the same page about things. If you are using all of these hypothetical situations and not being rather blunt, it’s hard to know if that person fully understands what you are trying to get at. Tread carefully in these weird waters, my friends.
3. Acting like a couple.
Just because he buys you Taco Bell or rubs your back after a long day does not mean he is ready to smack a label on things. Something I have been guilty of is seeing things differently than how they really are. It’s so easy to get your hopes up about something that could possibly be pretty awesome. However, try to keep your expectations low, especially in the beginning.
"Relationships," on all levels, can be really hard! Especially in this anti-label society we are living in. My advice to you is to not settle for something you aren’t comfortable with. Never disregard your needs in order to meet those of your S.O. If you are pondering the status of your "relationship," I suggest taking a leap of faith and directly confronting the person. This way, you are able to both have a clear and concise understanding of what is happening before it gets too awkward.
