Timeline Of Dating And Relationships 

Everybody wants to fit in, right? Being the odd one out is never enjoyable, I mean. Most individuals want to "fit in" and blend in with the group.

Why? We all want acceptance and/or affection from other people, thus this is why. We believe that if we adhere to societal standards, others will see us positively.

Yet, is that actually the case? Why is there anything wrong with following a different drummer? Really nothing. Simply put, the majority of people believe it to be unacceptable, which is a great shame.

Most of us are comparatively "normal" and adhere to societal norms, even in romantic relationships. However, there are always exceptions. As an example, I had a buddy who was married and whose wife was a swinger. It wasn't everyone's cup of tea, but it served its purpose.

I believe you see where I'm going.

So what constitutes "normal" in a relationship in terms of when events should take place? Is it advisable to adhere to a timeframe for relationships?

The issue is that there is no such thing as normal. There are averages, for sure, but generally speaking, what works for one couple won't work for another.

For instance, I'm the kind of person to decline a second date if I'm not feeling enthusiastic about the first one. To continue being interested, I need that sudden spark. But even months before they were married, a friend of mine had doubts about her future spouse. She is hence slow to warm up to someone. I lack the patience to accomplish it.

However, we are both correct. Just what is best for us, really.

Now that that is out of the way, let's look at some of the "typical" timetables for relationships and talk about whether or not you should compare your relationship to theirs.

How a Common Relationship Timeline Appearance

I'll say it again: If you don't adhere to these standard deadlines, neither you nor the relationship is in trouble. It's really just YOUR timeline. So, if you don't recognize yourself in these phases, try not to worry too much.

1. "Date"

It goes without saying that a first "date" is a necessary component of any relationship. Dates can sometimes begin as friendships in romantic relationships, which is why I inserted quotation marks around the word. There might not be a formal "first date" as a result. But that's how it operates for a lot of us.

2. Kiss

Before going on a first date, you might have had your first kiss if you were friends first. Alternatively, if you met someone online or through a dating app, you might have it during your first date.

But is a first date really the time for a kiss? Everything depends on you. Nothing is wrong with it if that's what you want to do. But some people would rather avoid getting too close when they first meet someone.

3. Initial encounters

Most people first go out once or twice to decide whether they want to continue dating. I believe I deviate from the norm. As I previously stated, I have to be incredibly enthusiastic about someone in order to go on a second date. Many people, however, just keep going out to see how things go and decide if they want to continue.

Four. Dating

You two could probably be considered to be "dating" if you keep going out on dates. It can be tricky during this stage because one person might assume it while the other does not.

However, you can pretty safely assume that this is a dating phase regardless of whether it is explicitly discussed or not.

5. The Honeymoon Stage

You two must really like each other if you continue to go out together. The "honeymoon phase" is therefore likely to begin for you.

In essence, you are infatuated with the person you are dating and can't get enough of them. You tend to look past any flaws and see things through a rose-colored lens.

6. View each other's residences

This is a significant step, mostly because it leaves you more exposed. Since it's safer, if you met through a dating website or app, you've probably done so up until this point in public.

You two will probably start spending time at each other's homes once you become more at ease with one another.

7. Exclusive Relationships

This stage is difficult, as I mentioned above. Some people believe that as time passes, it becomes automatically assumed that you are exclusively dating each other. It's possible that's not the case.

Both or one of them might be seeing someone else. Therefore, ideally, a conversation where you are "defining the relationship" should occur.

8. Visit Friends

It's a good idea to meet each other's friends once you are both aware that you are only seeing one another. It's a good opportunity to assess how well you and your partner integrate into each other's social circle.

9. Dedicated Connection

Some individuals conflate commitment with exclusive dating. It does not necessarily follow that you are long-term committed to the person just because you are only going out with them.

I am aware of individuals who made it clear that their six-month relationship with another person was not a committed one. Nevertheless, every couple is unique.

10. The Honeymoon Period Comes to an End

It's too bad that this stage must come to an end. It might not; after all, there are likely some little old couples who have been together for more than 50 years and are still smitten.

The infatuation eventually fades for the majority of people. Everyone experiences it differently, but on average it most likely occurs between six and a year.

11. Meet the family

It's a good idea to meet each other's families after you've been dating for a while and believe the union has staying power.

Perhaps before introducing them to your children, you should introduce them to your parents and siblings first. That's because your new relationship will have the biggest impact—for better or worse—on your kids.

12. Engage in Sex

This is one area where individuals have vastly different timelines. Some people get laid on the first date and go on to have successful relationships. Some people hold off until marriage.

You should therefore act in accordance with your instincts. Most adults typically wait three to five dates before going out. Everyone, however, has their own timeline for this.

13. Sleeping Over

When you begin spending nights at each other's houses is a very personal decision, just like when you start having sex. Others wait months or even years before doing this, while some people do it right away.

14. Travel Companion

Even though not everyone travels frequently, if you do, this can be a difficult time for most couples, especially if you don't spend a lot of time "living together" at each other's homes.

A person's true self is once more exposed when they travel, for better or worse.

15. Sharing a home

Some individuals reject the idea of cohabitation prior to marriage. Others consider it essential. But how long do you have to wait? Once more, it's entirely up to you.

A good estimate, in my opinion, would be to wait at least a year. You get to know one another pretty well after a year and can determine whether or not you would get along living together in the long run.

16. Committed

Others wait years, even decades, or never get engaged, while some do so within a few short months. It's all acceptable.

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Even if you decide against getting married, that's okay. The average time to get engaged, however, is between one and two years.

17. Is Married

Getting married is obviously the next step. After getting engaged, that typically happens between six and a year later. The type of wedding a couple has is also very unique.

18. Children and Beyond

Love comes first, followed by marriage, and then the children in the baby carriage. That adage is probably one you've heard before.

Many couples find that having children is challenging because it completely alters your life. No longer is it just the two of you. You cannot continue to act in a selfish manner.

19. The Empty Nest

The years of the empty nest will finally arrive after years and years. It's crucial to keep in mind that you should make an effort to maintain your relationship with your partner while your kids are at home.

If not, you will be left in the next phase's empty phase wondering what kind of couple you are. It may be necessary for you to rediscover love.

20. Years of Retirement

Not every couple succeeds in getting this far, so congratulations if you do!

Ideally, these years will be spent traveling, spending time with the grandchildren, and enjoying everything else.

Is It a Good Idea to Follow a Relationship Timeline?

So, is it wise to create a timeline for your relationships? It really doesn't matter, is the response.

What works for one couple doesn't necessarily apply to another. So, if you don't want to, don't feel obligated to adhere to the standard timeline like everyone else.

The Ideal Relationship Cycle That Ends in Marriage

Whether you and your partner are just starting out on the sweet side of romance or have been dating for a while, you may at some point wonder where your relationship is going. There is no universally applicable relationship timeline, but most couples do experience certain phases of their relationship. However, the timeframe can change. There is a wide range of what is "normal" in terms of relationship milestones; according to a WeddingWire survey, 38% of couples get engaged after dating for less than 18 months, while 25% wait five years or more. Whether or not getting married is in your future, the most crucial thing is that you and your partner feel safe and content in your relationship.

Find the best healthy relationship today!