Relationships-whether they last for a week or a lifetime-are one of the most exciting parts of being A Real Adult. They’re fun! They’re exciting! And a lot of the time, they involve steamy sex and personal rendezvous. But from first schedules to

Very simply, marriage and sex therapist Adrienne Michelle describes a relationship as a connection to a person you continue to engage with. Naturally, these connections can range from casual to intimate, platonic to romantic. And ideally, these connections provide a healthy balance of give-and-take, support, security, care, and growth, adds ily therapist Katie Miles.

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Unfortunately, that isn’t the case with every connection, which is often how poisonous dating come to be. A match dating is the one that’s the right fit for you, both with the nature of the relationship and the person(s) you’re in a relationship with, Miles explains.

And while a thriving, healthy relationship is the goal for many, if you’ve been in the dating game for literally any amount of time, you’re probably aware that no two connections are the same. Different types of relationships tend to come with distinct expectations, rules, and standards of engagement, explains Miles. And it’s important for each person’s well-being and sense of security to know what [the relationship] is.

That’s why both experts agree: Defining the partnership is key. In fact, Michelle says the only way a relationship can really thrive is if you’re on the same page regarding your wants and needs. Also! Since relationships are always evolving, it’s a good idea to continue checking in as you move forward-being on the same page now doesn’t mean you will be a year from nowmunication, folks! It’s a must.

Whether you’re trying to figure out what your location is that have an excellent that special someone or maybe just casually mapping out of the remainder of their lifetime (NBD!), we have found a glance at several types of romantic dating you could features, ranging from supes relaxed to lifelong commitment.

1. Flirty Friends

Playful closeness + borders = flirty relationships, explains Kilometers. Fundamentally, that is a friendship who’s an excellent commonly it, won’t it function. These relationship are generally about an ego improve and you may excitement without having any genuine risk otherwise connection. There clearly was an appeal lower than the individuals friendly vibes, therefore typically is sold with anything from type body language and flirtatious words so you’re able to close thoughts and feelings, Michelle says.

While, yes, teasing is actually enjoyable and these types of relationships are great if you just want the ego boost, Miles says because relationships can (and do) evolve, this has the potential to be the start of something much bigger. Granted, that means someone would have to consensually break the boundary, but the DateEuropeanGirl coupon friends-to-lovers trope is famous in shows, movies, and books for a reason, folks!

dos. Nearest and dearest Having Masters

Sometimes when flirty friendships are taken to the next level without commitment or expectations, they turn into more. Enter: sex friends or loved ones with professionals (FWB). Essentially, you’re pals in every sense, except the sexual boundaries are gone and you hook up either occasionally or regularly. There’s an agreement that you enjoy each other’s company and the function is physical, adventurous, casual, and fun, Miles explains.

That said, Michelle notes that these relationships can get tricky because there *could* be an emotional component involved that isn’t talked about. It’s crucial both parties consent to just being casual, intimate friends, she says. Also, FWIW: Miles suggests having a rule about practicing safe sex in case other partners are involved, so be sure to get specific condoms before meeting up with your FWB.