On Dating

I’ve never done it. Nope, never really dated. I’m not even sure it’s a real thing. I see it in movies and on TV, but I’ve never experienced it for myself. I’d like to give it a go.

I would like to point out that I feel like I’ve gotten to a point in my life where I’m okay with being single. This is a good feeling. I have friends and I keep busy doing things I enjoy. I genuinely enjoy my own company and entertain myself with solo activities, but I’m also self-aware enough to realize that I prefer to share certain things with another person. My friends aren’t always available for or interested in all of the fun stuff that I want to do.

So, how is it that I have made it this far in my life without ever really dating? Upon close examination, it seems that every time I think I’m going to try dating I end up meeting someone I really like right away and I suddenly find myself in a relationship. It’s not always a serious long-term relationship, but most of them have been. And they’ve ended up being pretty intense in one way or another. And really, there’s nothing wrong with that, and I’m not actually complaining about my history, but I’d like to give dating a try. I want something different.

Why? Because I’m not looking for a life partner. I’m not even looking for love. OK, maybe I wouldn’t mind if I happened to stumble across either of these things, but I’m not actively pursuing them. I’m looking to dial down the intensity. I’m looking for fun.

So, what do I mean by dating?

Dating is where you give yourself the opportunity to meet a bunch of new people and spend time with them without entering an exclusive relationship. Dating is saying “yes, let’s!” The benefits of dating include: the opportunity to get to know people I wouldn’t normally meet, the ability to try out different types of people without worrying about the possibility of getting stuck with them for a long period of time, and opening myself up to a whole world of possibilities that might not be available if I continue to connect with only one prospective romantic possibility at a time. It’s low-risk, adventurous and fun.

But to be completely honest, I’m really looking forward to the stories. I’m going into it with an open mind, an open heart, and plenty of generosity and excitement. I’m confident that there will be failures and successes, laughter and tears, intrigue and banality. Stay tuned!