Meet/Eat/Love (MEL) #21

In the stages of dating, how do you know when you want to be exclusive?

For some, this feeling comes almost immediately. I have a friend, Sabrina, who can’t wrap her head around dating multiple guys at the same time. She prefers to date one guy at a time because, as she explains, “If I like someone, I can’t think of someone else. It’s just not how my mind works.”

Myself, on the other hand, believe that you shouldn’t put all of your eggs in one basket. Or, perhaps you’re not looking for a serious relationship at that time. However, you never know when cupid’s arrow is going to strike. You might come to realize that you don’t want to date others, but just a special someone.

If you’ve been dating and are thinking of becoming exclusive with a special someone, here are 10 signs you’re ready to be exclusive:

1. You swipe left, more than you swipe right

For some reason, no one is catching your eye! Probably because there’s only one person that’s always on your mind.

2. You don’t feel like replying to new matches

You scroll through new messages as if you’re still half asleep. Even the wittiest messages that usually make you chuckle, just don’t do it for you anymore.

3. You have no desire to play games

Instead of being consumed with ‘should I text him first?’ you text him without second-guessing.  You are perfectly at ease and comfortable… because you know that there are no games.

4. You stop referring to him by his nickname

Instead of calling him ‘pre-med’ or ‘the chef’ or ‘the dj’ – he’s simply Zach. Yes, he’s moved onto first name basis!

5. You start thinking of the future plans

You want to include him in your birthday plans that are three months away. You make plans that are not just ‘hey, what are you doing right now?’

6. You post pics together on social media

When pics go up on social media, you know your friends and family will see it. You’re telling the world that you guys aren’t a temporary thing.

7. You introduce him to your inner circle

When he’s met your best friend from college or a family member, that’s a good sign! PLUS when your bff aka. the world’s toughest critic has nothing bad to say, he’s in it for the long haul.

8. Your eyes sparkle

Whenever you talk about him, your eyes and face light up like a Christmas tree.  

9. You aren’t afraid to reveal your flaws

He knows you’re not the best omelet maker or apple peeler, but he likes you for you… and he’s sticking around to find out more.

10. You just feel secure

For some reason, he just makes you feel secure….you just feel at ease and comfortable with him.

In summary, these signs can mean only one thing… that you want to start flying solo with this bae. Why not have a talk and see how he feels?! Chances are he feels the same…

Happy Dating!

Ms. Mel