Is a "situationship" right for me?

You've been seeing each other for a while and there's chemistry — but you're not sure if you want to fully commit.

This is called a "situationship", an alternative to traditional dating.

Before you decide if you're suitable for this type of relationship, you'll need to:

• Understand what a situationship is.

• Discover its pros and cons.

There are many different alternatives to traditional dating nowadays. They provide people with the freedom to decide what relationship suits their lifestyle or current situation.

Photo by Giancarlo Corti on Unsplash

A situationship is one of the popular alternatives. So, how is it defined?

A situationship is a romantic relationship in which one or both partners are not fully committed to the other person or to the relationship.

This type of relationship doesn't have a defined status label. However, it can still involve other components of a committed relationship, such as emotional connection or physical engagement. It offers a more fun, flexible, and less pressured type of connection with one another.

Like any other relationship, there are advantages and disadvantages of being in a situationship.

Knowing them can also help you to understand if this relationship is what you're looking for.

Pros

• Freedom and flexibility: no expectations, allows for self-growth in areas like your career

• Less pressure: no need to plan for the long-term, just enjoy the companionship

• Less commitment: allows you to enjoy the relationship without the need for commitment

• Exploration: with the possibility of being able to date other people, you'll have the opportunity to discover your relationship goals

Cons

• Emotional risks: potential of developing deeper feelings or feelings that aren't aligned with the other person

• No guarantee of stability: a situationship may not have consistent communication or plans

• No labels: an undefined relationship can lead to insecurity between you and your partner

• Lack of clarity: unclear boundaries or uncertainty can cause misunderstandings

This is a very tough question to answer because there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

A situationship can be a fun alternative relationship that offers flexibility and less pressure. But it can be complicated because of the uncertainty.

To get clarity, here are some key aspects to consider:

• Know what you want. Are you looking for freedom and fun, or do you want a defined relationship?

• Know what your emotional needs. Are you ok with casual check-ins, or do you need constant reassurance to feel secure?

• Know your boundaries. Is dating other people ok for you, or do you need exclusivity?

• Communicate openly. Make sure you're not afraid to express your feelings and expectations. Also, allow the other person to have an opportunity to express the same.

The goal is to enjoy and be comfortable in a situationship without compromising your well-being. If you have clear expectations and clear self-awareness, a situationship can be a fulfilling relationship. Without it, it can feel like a rollercoaster ride.

Quiz: Who is more suitable for a situationship?

Jenna, 21

Jenna recently moved to Japan for an English teacher job. She is adventurous and enjoys travelling. Jenna is planning to stay in Japan for 1-2 years and look for other opportunities to teach English elsewhere in Asia.

Aron, 24

Aron has been working with a tech company since he graduated from college. He seeks routine and enjoys companionship. He is seeking a meaningful connection with someone he can share both the good and the bad with.

A situationship is simply a type of connection between two people. The outcome depends on your needs and wants.

Photo by Candice Picard on Unsplash

Enter a situationship by choice. Knowing your boundaries, expectations, and lifestyle can help you determine if this is suitable for you.