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What does dating with intention actually look like?

What does dating with intention actually look like?

Dating with intention: a deeper dive into meaningful connections

Are you worried that you’re not getting the results that you want in dating? Do you feel like you put in time, you put in effort and yet, whether you’re in person or swiping on the apps, it’s just not panning out how you would have hoped.

It’s time to transition from a more casual dating approach to a more mindful one!

Too often we feel defeated by the swipe right culture of the modern day dating scene, yet doing it any other way might feel a bit archaic. However, as many are discovering, being deliberate about romantic pursuits can lead to more fulfilling relationships. So, what does dating with intention look like?

Defining dating with intention.

At its core, dating with intention means entering the dating scene with clarity about what you are looking for in a partner and relationship. It’s about being authentic, honest, and direct about your aspirations, while also being conscious of the feelings and goals of those you date.

If someone were to ask you, “hey, what’s your dating plan?” How would you respond?

Most of us enter into adulthood with a plan. Of course it always goes astray, but we at least begin with a roadmap of where we want to go to school, what kind of job we want to have, and an idea of what we want our lives to look like. We learn from a young age that if we want something in life, then we gotta have a plan on how to attain it.

So why is dating any different?

The Pillars of Intentional Dating

  • Self-awareness: Before diving into the dating pool, it’s essential to know yourself. What are your needs? Your boundaries? Your deal-breakers? This helps in creating more meaningful connections.
  • Clear communication: Be upfront about what you want. This doesn’t mean you spill all your desires on the first date, but it does mean you’re honest about your intentions as things progress.
  • Active listening: Intentional dating isn’t just about expressing your wants and needs but also about genuinely hearing your date’s.
  • Mindfulness: Being present in the moment and being emotionally available for your date, without the distractions of past relationships or potential future concerns.

Benefits of Dating with Intention

  • Fewer misunderstandings: By being clear about your intentions, you reduce the chances of mismatched expectations or feeling like you wasted your time.
  • Deeper connections: When both parties are intentional, conversations often delve deeper than surface-level banter, allowing for genuine emotional connections.
  • Personal growth: Intentional dating can lead to personal growth as you continuously reflect on your own needs, boundaries, and values.

The Other Side of the Coin

While dating with intention has its merits, it’s also essential to balance this with a level of spontaneity and openness. Over-analyzing or being too stringent can limit experiences or potential connections. Remember, it’s okay if every date or relationship doesn’t fit perfectly into your “plan.” Sometimes the most meaningful connections come from unexpected places.

Conclusion

Dating with intention is about quality over quantity. It’s about connecting with people who align with your values and desires, building relationships based on mutual understanding and respect. As you navigate the dating scene, always remember that intentionality starts with you. Self-awareness and clarity in your desires will pave the way for more fulfilling relationships.

 

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