If you’re single, what type of relationship are you keen on? Are you searching for ‘the one,’ or merely ‘one for tonight?’ Many singles might admit to the former, but until they come across this elusive individual, they’ll be content to enjoy themselves with a series of casual hookups. Here we’re going to offer some tips about making the most out of casual dating and stressing the things you need to do to guarantee your experiences are always safe.
1. Be ready to make the first move
Making the most of the opportunities for casual hookups is no time to be a shrinking violet. If you want to get to the best things in life, it often pays to throw caution to the wind! The other person might be a little more hesitant and waiting for you to make the first move. If you adopt the same outlook, then you are never going to create sparks. So always be prepared to make a move first, and worry about the consequences later. Breaking the ice in this way usually paves the way for both of you to relax.
2. Go online if you are self-conscious
One of the key factors towards successful casual dating is where you meet your prospective partner in the first place. If you have ever asked the question, ‘Where are the best places to arrange one-night stands near me?’ the answer lies at your fingertips. Literally. By signing up for a casual dating website or app, you will seriously boost your chances of connecting with someone who would be perfect for one of these hookups. Digital dating services rely on establishing compatibility between potential dates, as well as offering a raft of communication tools to help you get your relationship off the ground quickly.
3. Voice your intentions and limitations
What are you looking for on a casual date? Are you out for ‘no strings attached’ fun, or are you secretly hoping this rendezvous could lead to something longer-term? Whatever your aspirations, it is important that these are aired from the outset. This is never going to progress anywhere if you both approach from different angles.
4. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Much as it would be tempting to rely on ‘Dutch courage’ to counteract nerves, the golden rule is to resist the urge to drink excessively. Too much alcohol can have a disastrous effect on any romantic get-together, causing you to speak out of line or draw undue attention by talking too loudly. The individual you are trying to impress will see an unpleasant side of you and would likely wish they had arranged to meet someone else.
5. Respect is important in any situation
If the person you are communicating with shows any signs of being less genuine, or you have questions about their true motivations, take a step back. Ask friends what they think. If you’re connecting via a dating service, perhaps video chatting with someone who keeps their mask on, you need to enquire why they’re remaining masked. Are strict rules remaining in the location where they’re contacting you? You’ll need to establish this because there’s a new post-pandemic trend in dating being referred to as ‘maskfishing.’ This is the latest attempt by unscrupulous individuals to avoid revealing their true identity. Should they refuse to take their face covering off, you would be best advised to either block them or report them to site admin.
6. Practice safety at every stage
Always take precautions, and this includes checking the expiry date of any contraceptive devices you use. You can’t rely on someone you don’t know that well to take responsibility. So, another crucial piece of advice is to make packing something into your handbag or back pocket a priority.
7. Change of scenery
Your new relationship can be enlivened by thinking of exciting new date locations. This is where communication can be so important, as safe casual dating is as much about appreciating your partner’s preferences. Take the time to suggest different outings to keep your casual relationship buoyant and interesting. How about soaking up the natural atmosphere of a pleasant forest walk? Or planning a weekend break together, perhaps somewhere neither of you have visited before? All of these suggestions will enliven your romance and keep your partnership fresh and exciting.
So, we’ve illustrated that there’s a lot more to successful casual dating than choosing someone who, on the surface, appears to be compatible. In the modern world, you always have to be aware of the potential dangers that lurk in society, no matter how remote the chances of anything happening. But once you can understand how important it is to stay safe and the appropriate counter-measures you should observe, you’ll be able to relax and make the most of casual dating.
