Welcome to Dating 101 – Part 3, the final in this series.
In Part 1, we shared how to begin dating.
In Part 2, we touched on guidelines around how to interact and engage with each other.
In Part 3, we’re talking about that tricky transition — from interacting often to choosing exclusivity.
In simpler words: Do I stop exploring other options?
So, you’ve been enjoying your time with each other.
You’ve crossed that early bridge of disagreements.
You’re putting in the effort to get to know one another.
And you’ve started trusting them — even if just a little.
But at the back of your mind, you’re wondering:
“Are they really the one?”
It’s been several weeks, maybe even a couple of months.
Here are a few tips that might help settle some of that doubt and help you build trust because let’s be honest, complete trust takes time. Sometimes even years.
1) Is the effort mutual?
Observe:
Do they engage with you in a reasonable time frame?
Are they keen to meet when plans are made?
Or do they take days to respond and only meet when it suits them?
If it feels one-sided, chances are you're more invested in making this work than they are.
You could either:
a) Slow down your pace
or
b) Communicate how you're feeling
2) Ask to meet their circle.
And invite them into yours.
Doing this will help you:
See them in their comfort zone
Understand the kind of people they keep close
And most importantly, it’s a subtle sign that they’re comfortable introducing you as someone special
3) Travel together
Even if it’s just a day trip.
You learn a lot about someone when you travel with them:
How they handle delays or unexpected changes
How they treat others
How open they are to sharing space, time, responsibilities
It’s revealing and often fun too.
4) Notice how you feel around them
This one’s big.
Do you feel like you can be yourself?
Or are you constantly walking on eggshells, afraid to say the wrong thing?
The right person allows you to breathe easy, not second-guess your every move.
A gentle reminder:
Even if you're compatible, you're still two different people with your own opinions — and that's okay.
If you can sit in silence comfortably, laugh more than you frown, and feel a sense of emotional safety…
You may have found your person.
