Modern Day Dating
Times have changed where we are living through a different era of technology, dating and casual hookups. It has become a way of life and a part of the Australian culture. By looking out for each other and planning your evening, you can help ensure you and your friends have a safe night out. Regardless of where you stand on that continuum, there are certain things you can do to maximize your chances of benefiting from your hookup experiences and minimize your chances of being harmed by them. Modern day dating is made easier with the following tips and tricks.
If you’re having casual sex, here are some things that help make it a positive experience—rather than one you’ll regret.
-
Do it for the right reasons
Hooking up for the right reasons, such as being attracted to the person, feeling horny, and wanting a pleasurable, new sexual experience, can improve your overall health and happiness. Research shows, however, that when you have casual sex for the wrong reasons, your well-being suffers. Some of the wrong reasons for having casual sex include needing to feel better about yourself, being peer- or partner-pressured into it, believing the hookup was more than just casual, or doing it because you’re too drunk to think clearly. So before you hookup, ask yourself why you’re doing it and what you’re trying to get out of it. If you’re doing it for the right reasons, you’re more likely to have a great time.
-
Use Protection!!!
In casual sex, a condom is the only thing that keeps you truly safe. When you don’t know your partner, you can’t trust them to tell you the truth, and you shouldn’t assume they’ll try to keep you from harm. Carry condoms, oral dams and lube on you at all times. And use them, properly! Not only will safe sex prevent unwanted pregnancies but stop the spread of STI’s & STD’s.
-
Say no to things you don’t want to do
Don’t get pressured into something you’re going to regret the next day. Know your limits and express them as clearly, loudly and forcefully as is necessary. Sex should be mutually beneficial and pleasurable for both parties. Engaging in sexual behaviors or activities you don’t feel comfortable with should put no obligation on your to fulfill them. Its also a great idea to have a safe word when engaging sexually with a new partner. This helps with boundaries so you can communicate effectively & openly. I personally love the traffic light concept.
Green: Go ahead, I’m loving it
Orange: I am enjoying myself but please go slowly/ slow down
Red: Please stop, I’m not enjoying this
-
Tell someone where you are & who you’re with
Its really important to always tell a friend or family member whenever you’re planning on meeting up with someone exclusively. By telling someone where & who you’re with can help protect you if something were to go wrong. Checking in with these people throughout the date helps alleviate any stress or concerns they may be experiencing.
-
Surround yourself with people who don’t judge you
Many people may reject or judge you if you engage in casual sex frequently. Make sure you surround yourself with friends and partners who accept your sexual lifestyle, even if they don’t share it. If you must be surrounded by people who will judge you if they know that you partake in casual sex, keep your sexual exploits on the down low. Being judged and criticized won’t make for a positive experience, so be as discreet as you need to be.
-
Do not get wasted
Getting super drunk or high is probably the single worst thing you can do before/during casual sex. A little buzz to get you in the mood is probably OK, but anything beyond that will likely inhibit your ability to evaluate your motives, give and get pleasure or consent, be safe and even to remember the experience. If you need to be wasted in order to hookup, you’re probably doing it for the wrong reasons.
-
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Mistakes happens. Even if you do everything right, sometimes hookups don’t turn out well. Maybe the condom broke, your partner ended up being a jerk, the sex was horrible, the wrong people found out, or you ended up drinking too much. It’s not the end of the world. It’s just proof that you’re human, and one bad hookup probably won’t have serious long-term consequences. So, go easy on yourself. Learn from your mistakes, try not to repeat them in the future, and move on with your life.
Sex should be fun, right? Unfortunately, there is no one, fool-proof way to ensure casual sex will always be fun, pleasurable, safe, and enriching. But by being more educated and having a strong plan in place can help reduce the risk of unwanted circumstances.
Forms of Dating
In the quest for companionship, dating is an indispensable component. It’s a complex world with different rules, expectations, and styles. Today we’ll explore twelve distinct types of dating, each offering a unique flavor of experience.
1. Online Dating: The Digital Romance
The digital age has revolutionized the way we find love. With the click of a button, you can connect with potential partners from across the globe. Online dating platforms, such as Tinder, OkCupid, and Bumble, offer a smorgasbord of options, allowing you to swipe, like, and message your way into someone’s heart.
To navigate the online dating scene effectively, here are a few tips:
- Be authentic in your profile creation. Share your interests, preferences and a bit of your personality.
- Engage in a video call before meeting in person to confirm the authenticity of the person.
- For physical dates, choose public places to ensure safety.
2. Double Dates: Twice the Fun
Double dating involves two couples sharing a date. It’s a fantastic way to reduce the anxiety of dating as your friends are there to lighten the mood. Double dates can provide a more relaxed environment, especially for those who are more introverted or new to dating.
3. Group Dates: A Social Affair
Group dating is a casual, low-pressure way to meet potential partners. It involves an outing or an activity with a group of friends, which creates a casual setting for people to mingle and form connections.
4. Speed Dating: Love at Fast Forward
Speed dating is an efficient way to meet multiple potential partners in a short span. In a structured setting, you get to interact with several individuals for a fixed short period. Speed dating can be a fun and efficient way to meet new people, but remember to keep your expectations realistic and enjoy the experience.
5. Blind Dates: The Mystery Encounter
Blind dates are set up by someone else, usually a friend or a family member. They can be exciting yet nerve-wracking. Going into a date without preconceived ideas about your match can lead to a pleasantly surprising experience.
6. Casual Dating: The No-Strings-Attached Approach
Casual dating is all about enjoying someone’s company with minimal commitment. It’s about getting to know different people, having fun, and enjoying experiences without the pressure of a serious relationship.
7. Long-Term Dating: Going the Distance
Long-term dating is for those ready to invest in a serious, committed relationship. It involves a deep emotional commitment, with partners often envisioning a shared future.
8. Friends with Benefits: Friendship Plus
Friends with benefits is a setup where friends engage in intimate activities without a committed romantic relationship. It’s a casual arrangement that requires clear communication and mutual consent to prevent misunderstandings.
9. Situationship: Undefined yet Exclusive
A situationship is a romantic scenario that hasn’t been defined yet. You’re more than friends but not exactly in a committed, labeled relationship. It’s crucial to regularly communicate your feelings to avoid confusion or hurt feelings.
10. Exclusive Dating: Monogamy Defined
This involves two individuals who have decided to date each other exclusively, eliminating other potential partners. It’s an important step towards a committed relationship, requiring loyalty and trust.
11. Ethical Non-Monogamy: Love Multiplied
Ethical non-monogamy allows individuals to have multiple romantic relationships with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. There’s a range of non-monogamous relationships, including open relationships, polyamorous relationships, and throuples.
12. Long-Distance Dating: Love Across Borders
Long-distance dating is about maintaining a romantic relationship despite geographical separations. It requires effort, commitment, and effective communication. Regular virtual dates, messages, and occasional visits can help keep the love alive.
Dating comes in many forms, each offering unique experiences. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all in dating. Whether you prefer online dating, casual encounters, or long-term commitments, what matters most is your comfort and happiness. As you navigate your dating journey, remember to stay true to yourself, communicate your expectations clearly, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
