When my long-term relationship of 16 years spit me back into the dating streets, I found myself 35, lonely, and childless. I was apprehensive about finding love again, but adamant about not wasting any more time with one egg rolling around in my basket. Allow me to introduce you to modern-day circular dating.
Circular dating is a modern approach to dating that can have both benefits and drawbacks. Essentially, it involves dating multiple people at the same time to explore different connections and experiences before committing to a serious relationship. The concept is based on the idea that by dating a variety of individuals, you can gain valuable insights into what you truly want in a partner and relationship. It’s like test-driving different cars before deciding which one suits you best. So, let’s dive into the world of circular dating and explore its pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right approach for you.
Circular dating is about keeping your options open and not putting all your eggs in one basket. Rather than focusing all your attention on one person, you actively engage with multiple people simultaneously. This allows you to see different perspectives, personalities, and lifestyles, giving you a broader understanding of what you desire in a partner. It’s not about playing games or being dishonest—it’s about being upfront and honest with everyone involved about your intentions. Maintaining an open mind and heart allows you to navigate the dating scene with a sense of openness and curiosity.
One of the key benefits of circular dating is that it can help you avoid rushing into a relationship out of loneliness or desperation. By dating multiple people, you can take the time to get to know yourself better and understand your own needs and desires. This self-awareness is crucial in forming healthy and fulfilling relationships in the long run. Circular dating can also prevent you from prematurely investing all your emotions and energy into one person, reducing the risk of heartbreak if things don’t work out.
Another advantage of circular dating is the opportunity to explore different connections and experiences. Each person you date brings something unique to the table, whether it’s shared interests, values, or perspectives. This variety can enrich your dating journey and help you appreciate the diversity of human relationships. By interacting with various individuals, you can learn more about the kind of partner who complements you best.
On the flip side, circular dating comes with its own set of challenges and potential drawbacks. One of the main concerns is the emotional complexity of juggling multiple relationships simultaneously. Investing time and effort into several people at once can be draining, leading to overwhelming or confusing feelings. Managing expectations and boundaries with each person requires clear communication and emotional maturity.
Moreover, circular dating may also lead to feelings of guilt or insecurity, especially if you’re not used to dating multiple people simultaneously. It’s essential to practice ethical dating by being honest about your intentions and treating each person with respect. Transparency is key to maintaining trust and integrity in your dating interactions.
Despite the potential challenges, circular dating can benefit individuals looking to explore their options and gain valuable insights into their relationship preferences. If you’re someone who values personal growth and self-discovery, circular dating can offer a unique opportunity to learn more about yourself and others. Whether circular dating is right for you depends on your preferences, values, and dating goals. If you’re open to new experiences and willing to navigate the complexities of dating multiple people, it could be a rewarding and enlightening journey.
Have you tried circular dating? Would you? Let us know in the comments!
Follow MEFeater on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for more dating and lifestyle updates.
