One of the most important parts of dating is knowing what you really want from a relationship, and that is called a dating intention. On some apps or websites, you can select something like "figuring it out" as a public facing dating intention, and my honest opinion is that you should not be dating if you don't now what you want. Figuring that out is an important first step before creating a dating app profile or approaching someone in public, and I hope that this article will help you do that!

What does it mean to be seeking a casual relationship?

There are two types of casual relationships: casual dating and casual sexual relationships. A casual relationship requires no expectation of romantic commitment in the short or long term. A casual relationship doesn't imply monogamy, but absolutely can with discussion. People usually look for a casual relationship when they aren't ready to dedicate their romantic or sexual efforts to one single person. This is a relationship type that people have different expectations for, so being explicit and clear about what you are looking for will be important for protecting your feelings and your health. It isn't hard for a casual relationship to snowball into a situationship, which can be particularly dissatisfying and frustrating to one or both partners, so checking in with one another about whether or not things are in a good place is important.

What does it mean to be seeking a serious relationship?

Any of the relationship types following this section (short-term, long-term, life partner) are considered serious relationships. These are relationships with a high degree of commitment to a single person. What differentiates these types of relationships is the time horizon we are willing to commit to (like, for the next year, or for the next 5 years), and the speed of progression through relationship stages (how fast you want to get engaged or get married).

What does it mean to have "short-term" dating intentions?

I perceive short-term dating intentions to be about monogamous commitment - only seeing one person - and having a legitimate, meaningful relationship with them. In this type of relationship, there is no expectation of marriage or long-term goal setting. Daters are only willing to commit for right now, as it serves them.

What does it mean to have "long-term" dating intentions?

Long-term dating intentions reflect an expectation of monogamous commitment, and having a dedicated, meaningful relationship with another person. People with this dating intention likely perceive a desire to make long-term goals together as a couple and as individuals. A long-term oriented dating relationship usually, but not always, means marriage in the future for most people, however, what that married life will look like (e.g., do we have kids, who will work, etc.) will look different for different people. Aligning on life-style and life-goal compatibility early is important, even if both partners are looking for a long-term relationship.

What does it mean to look for a life partner?

While long-term dating intentions reflect a desire for a committed relationship that may wind up in marriage someday, looking for a life partner typically reflects a desire for rapid progression toward something quite serious (like marriage, kids, etc.). Usually folks with this dating intention are older and ready to build a meaningful relationship quickly.