The purpose of dating for most people, no matter how casual or flippant they may seem, is to find true love with someone special and either get married or commit to them in some other way. Relationships might be complicated and messy things that never happen the same way twice, but getting to that point of serious commitment means passing several milestones that are fairly predictable.
The First Date. This is where it all starts and, for the majority of new relationships, also where it all ends.
The Second Date. A crucial milestone because it confirms that both people are interested.
The First Kiss. A big test of chemistry, a good first kiss can give the relationship a serious kick start while a bad one can kill it before it even gets going.
Defining the Relationship. When you realize that you aren’t interested in seeing other people, one of you initiates “the talk,” and you both mutually agree to become exclusive.
Going Away Together. Travel is stressful, plus suddenly being around the other person 24/7 tends to throw “best behavior” out the window. Vacations, road trips, and weekend getaways have killed many a promising relationship.
The First “I Love You.” Some people throw these around like candy, but for most of us it’s a really big deal.
The One-Year Anniversary. Dating someone for a year means you’ve been through all kinds of tests together, plus there’s a mental shift that takes place when you start to go through annual events (like birthdays and holidays) with the same person for the second time.
Future Talks. Using “we” instead of “I” and talking about weddings, houses, baby names, and settling down together is significant (when both people are doing it).
Meet the Parents. Perhaps one of the most infamous signals of a long-term relationship, meeting the parents and family represents being let in to a very intimate circle.
The Proposal/Marriage. The final step, which happens once you’re both sure you’ve found the one person you want to spend the rest of your life with — and hopefully you’re right!
(Photo courtesy of Mart1n on stock.xchng)
