Dating and Courtship - Knowing the Difference Between the Two

Some people date for casual fun, others do it to seek out a potential life partner. Some people are hardwired for serious relationships while others are not. People often get the two confused, and if you have been dating someone for quite a while you're probably at the point where you may be wondering exactly where does the relationship stand and whether to proceed further. You also may be wondering if this person is dating you exclusively and if they aren't then why not?

There is a big difference between dating and courtship. Dating is very casual, while a courtship is much exclusive and intimate. On the contrary to popular belief, dating is not synonymous with an exclusive relationship. And it's always good to keep your options open, and allow the other person to do the same. When dating the common goal is to explore whether or not you share things in common with a person and if those things can take you to the next level of sharing a mutual connection. What is most important is that there is communication regarding expectations. If you and the other person have different views about where you want to go with things this can present a problem. If there has been no discussion about exclusivity then the other person is doing nothing wrong. It may be a tough pill to swallow but it's the truth. However, if it has been discussed that there is desire to take things further then enters a courtship.

When entering into a courtship, it usually means that the person you are seeing has zeroed in on you, and is actively pursuing you, and only you, towards possible matrimony. In this day and age, courtship is rarely explored or even talked about and its primarily because people are so quick to push things to the next level without actively investing the time into getting to know one another. This is why many people find themselves confused after a certain point, especially if there has already been sexual contact. It's one thing to have a no strings attached physical relationship, it's totally something different if you are truly seeking love or a potential life partner. Sex will only complicate things. This is why it's important to know the difference between the two and how it works.

In courtship, each person values and respects the other person. It involves two focused individuals willing to sacrifice and make time for each other to connect on a much more deeper level. Long talks together, public acknowledgment of one another, meeting each other's family and friends, buying gifts, writing letters, intimate dinners and other romantic gatherings are just a few examples of what makes up courtship. You are doing much more than just "hanging out" or "meeting up" on occasion. You are engaging in a form of intimacy that goes beyond the bedroom, thus minding receptiveness in each other's interests and long term relationship goals that are ultimately intended to lead to marriage.