Are Being In A Relationship And Dating The Same Thing?

Some may assume that dating and being in a relationship are the same. People can make this assumption when using each concept interchangeably, but they each have differences that some people may not notice. For example, those who have never had a boyfriend or girlfriend may not understand that they are distinct from each other. Sometimes it depends on how a person introduces their partner to their friends or family. They may refer to them as their girlfriend or boyfriend or say this is someone they are dating. You may be seeing someone for a while, but not sure if it is considered a relationship or if you are still in the dating stage.  Clarifying aspects of each will help with understanding the status between you and your significant other. This article discusses the differences between dating and a relation, including the confusing aspects of what is a relationship and dating, including how they are distinct from each other and signs of moving to the next level in your connection to each other. 

Why people think relationship and dating are the same

Casual dating and being in a relationship usually occur in stages, but depending on the individual, they may be quick to assume certain aspects of being with another person. A person's feelings for another may have them believing they are in a relationship when they are in the early dating phase because they spend a considerable amount of time with their partner or significant other. Two people may spend time together doing activities like dinner and a movie, hanging out with friends, or helping each other do a task. But they have yet to define if they are a couple because they simply haven’t talked about it yet. 

Some people are in a rush to be in a relationship and are unconcerned or unsure of relationship norms such as how many dates before a relationship is established. They went out on a date or two with a person they liked. They enjoyed the time spent with that person, even if it was brief. A person may be head over heels for someone they just met and want to continue seeing them, but they do not mean it’s a relationship. Someone may say they are seeing them and think it means they are in a relationship. The other partner feels they are dating and may assume their partner is defining their time together as the same. 

Understanding the differences between being in a relationship and dating includes talking with your partner to make sure both of you know where you stand.

Defining the concept of dating

Dating occurs before things become more serious. How long a person dates someone may vary, but it may occur over a few weeks or months. Dating allows you to get to know each other. It involves setting a date and time in the future to meet. You set aside time to spend with this person to learn about them. You may have a friendship that includes being attracted to each other. Both partners know they are not committed to each other. Each person may date other people and have no problems respecting this aspect.

Some may choose to get close to each other through physical intimacy like sex or a one-night stand, but it still doesn't mean you're in a relationship. Dating may involve spending time with someone, but you don't have a necessary dating goal or an expectation. Many even subscribe to the 3-date rule, which basically makes you decide if it's time to sleep together or not. Sometimes dating is getting to know a person but wanting to see if things may lead to a relationship. Dating doesn't involve as many emotions as being in a relationship and may not be as long term of an arrangement. You may simply feel happy or generally good all over when hanging out together.

Defining being in a relationship

A relationship is the next step after dating. You feel like more than just friends, and you don't want to date anyone else. You are typically uncomfortable with the idea of the other person dating someone else. Sometimes people date each other for a while and wonder what their status is. One may think it is time to talk about defining your situation to determine if you're an official couple. In a relationship, things are focused on between you and your partner. You are considered exclusive because you are not dating other people. There are other aspects of being in a relationship that come into play that didn't matter while dating.

Sometimes a relationship happens without having a conversation defining their friendship status. You've gotten to know each other enough to want to explore each other more personally, creating a deeper bond. A mutual agreement may occur without hesitation from either side, agreeing they are in a relationship. Both agree you're invested in each other emotionally. Both partners establish a level of commitment. You have long-term intentions of establishing relations with each other.

Some may assume exclusive dating is the same as being in a relationship. The difference here is you are choosing to date someone exclusively by investing more energy and time with them. People may do this right before defining their relationship. A relationship involves integrating your lives by associating with each other's family and friends. You do things together, and it may not be planned. You will work toward doing things together, such as taking a vacation or living together. You are probably not concerned about anyone or anything else at this point, except focusing on keeping the relationship healthy and moving forward. 

Differences in dating and being in a relationship

It is common to be confused about how to define a relationship, considering it is a subjective word that is defined by the person who uses it. Dating and being in a relationship are similar concepts, but different meanings. People may not recognize certain aspects that give clues to their actual status. The similarities are essential aspects of both situations, but depending on the situation, the importance level is a contributing factor. The following points may help you understand their differences:

Relationships are built on trust and mutual agreement

Dating doesn't require the same level of trust and understanding. Dating allows you to assess the qualities and characteristics to learn if they possess the values you want when building a relationship. A relationship grows based on trusting each other and mutuality. Meaning that if you set boundaries for the relationship, both partners should agree to them. You have faith in each other for being committed and doing what is necessary to establish and maintain the relationship, especially if you choose to see each other exclusively. Some may want to date someone exclusively but are not ready for a relationship.

Relationships depend on commitment

Dating requires little commitment. You may agree to specific aspects of a date, such as a date, time, and place, but that's about it. A meaningful relationship requires commitment from both partners. Relationships with commitment include looking to the future and exploring where things may take you. There are aspects of being committed that make a difference in growing a relationship, including being open, honest, and practicing good communication.

Relationships require thorough communication

Dating requires minimal communication, such as a meeting or making small talk and getting to know each other. Communication while dating is important to learn about each other, but it becomes a significant factor in a relationship. During a relationship, you’ll talk to each other often about many different aspects of who you are as a person. It will not be as limited as when you were dating. Your conversations will be a focal point that helps both partners grow a bond essential toward commitment, trust, and being on the same page throughout the relationship.

Relationships have expectations

Dating expectations are not the same as relationship expectations. In a dating situation, things are casual since you're not expecting anything from the other person. You might look forward to another date soon if things were great during the first date. In a relationship, this aspect is magnified because expectations help build relations between partners. You may have expectations you expect your partner to meet, and they will likely also have expectations about you.

Relationships become a priority

Dating and relationships are a priority, but one is more significant than the other because of its meaning. Dating is something a person wants to do, but it may not be a top priority like family, friends, or career. 

Relationships require patience, time, and effort. A relationship is a priority because it changes the dynamics of your life. Your partner may be first before other priorities. The previous points mentioned play an intricate role in a relationship and why it is necessary to prioritize making it work.

These differences show why it is crucial to understand what makes dating and being in a relationship between two separate situations. They each have elements of excitement that lead to unique experiences. Assessing these elements may also encourage you to rethink who you choose to engage with if you want a serious, romantic relationship that you develop socially.

Still confused about where you stand? Talk about it

Are you dating someone and want to know what your next step should be? Maybe you have been seeing someone for a while and feel things are serious, but you are not sure how to bring up the topic. You can review what you want to say and how to express your thoughts to prepare for talking to the person you are dating. But sometimes, this introspection does not give you the insight you need. 

Reaching out to a licensed therapist can help. With the right therapist, you can develop a plan that helps you build confidence and understand why you may be confused about where you stand in the relationships you are involved in. If you are unable to make an appointment with a therapist in person due to cost, unavailability, or time constraints, consider online therapy. You may even find it to be more available and cost-effective than in-person sessions. Furthermore, research shows virtual therapy to be just as effective as in-person therapy. 

Maybe you are hoping to develop some relationship insight from a couples' counselor about speaking to the person you see about your feelings. Getting your thoughts out helps assess your situation. Even if things don't work out in your favor, you may learn useful tips to benefit your future dating or relationship experiences while learning more about yourself.

Takeaway

Dating may lead to being in a relationship with someone you like and can be an opportunity to get to know someone while looking forward to spending time together that's planned. Being in a relationship requires commitment and investing in each other's lives. If you are still confused about your relationship or simply want to learn about yourself and ways to deepen your ability to commit and communicate, do not hesitate to talk to a therapist.