4 Ways to make Casual Dating Less Awkward

In a world of swipe right if you like and swipe left if you don't, it's easy to get caught up in what could be, the awkwardness of casual dating. When I say casual dating, I mean that you may be dating several people at once until you meet someone that you want to rock with someone exclusively , OR you are entertaining options because that's your prerogative. To make things a little less awkward, I've come up with four simple things you can do. Read on.

1.state your intentions

On that first DATE, state your intentions. Notice I specifically said DATE, so when you're face-to-face with the new potential bae or baes, make sure you state, "I'm looking for/my intention in dating is to [fill in your response here]." Or at least say something to that effect. Some examples may include:

• Meet someone I can start a new relationship with

• Casually date, nothing serious aka "have fun"

• Meet my future forever boo/spouse

• Go with the flow

• Etc.

Knowing a person's intentions gives both people the opportunity to keep it 100 and decide whether they want to stick around for the party. Try to avoid saying things just because you know they'll benefit you and only you. In the long run, no one wants to be strung along. Have the cojones to allow someone to relegate you to where you need to be in their eyes, rather than trying to indirectly do it for them with a lie. Keep in mind that stating your intentions isn't just a one-time, first date thing. When your desire to switch directions with an individual changes, state your intentions at that time as well.

2.state your current status

If you meet someone on a dating site or app, I think it's safe to assume that they're currently dating and getting to know other men or women. However, because you could be wrong in that assumption, it's best to simply ask the question, "Are you currently dating other people?" You also might want to throw in whether they're looking to date others since the pool might be dry when you two actually go out. When asked this question, answer truthfully. Also take it upon yourself to volunteer your own status if you're the one asking the question. The average person probably won't be offended if you answer in the affirmative, especially if you met on a swipe left/swipe right app. Correct me if I'm wrong here, by the way. Being able to state whether you're seeing others at the moment shows that you're comfortable being open and honest, with no reason to hide anything. Once you can establish that rapport, you gain credibility and honest communication becomes welcome and respected. Just like stating your intentions, stating your current status allows the other party to decide whether your type of party is one they want to linger around at, or bounce.

3. be consistent in the amount of ENERGY you give

As we all know, consistency is key-- even in casual dating. Things can already get murky and weird when you don't handle the first and second points. Add onto that inconsistent energy and stuff can get extra weird. Long story short, if you appear hot and cold, the other party may be put off and you'll lose credibility. Note that I'm not defining what consistent looks like-- you define that for yourself. I'm just saying to be consistent in whatever you're doing. I get that if you lose interest or interest picks up, the level of energy you give will change, but that's when you use your words and refer back to step 1 by stating your intentions.

4. Be You, consistently

Most people want to make a good impression when trying to woo someone, but it's important to remember that no one is perfect and we are all uniquely created. If being yourself isn't good enough for a person, then that's not the person for you. Of course, put your best foot forward, but try and be mindful of whether the things you're doing are really you on a regular basis. If they're not, are you just doing them to reel in a person and get what you want? Note that it can range from things like flat out lying to someone to get what you want, but on the other end of the spectrum, being so accommodating so as to not rock the boat. In real life and in real relationships with real people, nothing is ever going to be completely copacetic. Accept it and know that it's OK.

The bottom line is to be upfront about what who you really are and what you want. Keep it 100! Let's talk about this some more. Leave your comments and questions below!