The New Dating Game | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Relationships

The New Dating Game

Don't compromise your standards along with the changing "dating rules."

16
The New Dating Game
She Knows

Dating rules have changed quite a bit in the last few decades. Sometimes it seems like they change so quickly, it’s hard to keep up. While guys were once expected to make the first move and show up at your door with a bouquet of flowers, now it doesn’t matter who makes the first move and formal first dates rarely happen. These days there’s a lot of texting, subtle Instagram likes, and long streaks of photos exchanged on Snapchat. Who makes these rules, anyway? And where are they written down?

Today’s “dating game” can feel very complicated. It seems like a long shot these days to expect a guy (or girl) to act completely loyal, and some girls feel as if it’s almost inevitable for the guy they’re “talking to” to also be “talking to” other girls at the same time. Some say that’s just the way it is these days. But I don’t think that’s true. I don’t think that’s how it should be, and I don’t think that anyone should settle for this kind of superficial relationship.

Of course, everyone’s relationship will be specific to them. But there are some things that shouldn’t have to be compromised. Your partner should always respect you, in every way. This means always waiting for consent, and never pressuring you into anything. It also means not talking to other people in ways that make you uncomfortable. Flirting with other girls, even over social media, is a form of disrespect and shouldn't ever be tolerated.

Another aspect of a romantic relationship that should never have to be compromised is feeling appreciated. Don’t get me wrong—no one can ever make you feel appreciated 100 percent of the time. But your partner should also never make you feel bad for no reason. Overall, you should feel loved and appreciated by your partner, and they should never hold that appreciation over your head or make you feel like you have to earn it.

Your partner should always build you up and challenge you to become a better person. If you feel like your significant other is dragging you down morally or emotionally, it’s time to find someone else. Your partner should help you to become the best version of yourself! You should be able to be completely yourself with them, and they should bring out the best in you.

Don’t be afraid to wait for this kind of person. I promise you, it’ll be worth it. I heard once that it’s better to be lonely and single than in a relationship and lonely. Nothing is worse than the loneliness that you can feel when you’re in a relationship. Don’t settle!!! Your dream person is out there, and it’s not worth it to waste your time, energy, and heart on someone who won’t value you like they should.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

1980
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

1076
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

844
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

794
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments