3 Ways to Avoid Getting Into Another Situationship—and What to Look For
Written by : Alea DiGirolamo
Navigating the modern dating world can feel like a minefield, especially when you’re trying to avoid the dreaded "situationship"—a relationship that exists in the grey area between casual dating and commitment. If you’re tired of the ambiguity and ready for something more defined, here are three expert tips to help you avoid falling into another situationship.
Get Clear on What You Want (And Communicate It Early)
One of the most common pitfalls in modern dating is entering a relationship without clear expectations. Many people go with the flow, hoping things will naturally evolve into something serious. But in today’s dating landscape, ambiguity breeds more ambiguity.
Before you start dating, take time to define what you really want—whether it’s a committed relationship, casual dating, or something in between. Once you have that clarity, make sure you communicate it early in your interactions. It doesn’t mean you have to bring up commitment on the first date, but if the relationship is progressing and your needs aren’t being addressed, don’t be afraid to have an honest conversation.
What to Look For: A partner who respects and values your openness. If someone shies away from discussing future plans or avoids labeling the relationship, it’s a red flag they might not be ready for the commitment you seek.
Watch for Consistency in Actions, Not Just Words
Situationships often arise because one person says all the right things but their actions don’t align. In modern dating, it’s easy to fall into the trap of listening to promises without observing if those promises turn into real effort.
Actions speak louder than words. Pay attention to how consistent your partner is with their behavior. Are they making time for you? Do they show genuine interest in your life? Are they following through on plans and commitments?
What to Look For: Someone who invests in building a connection beyond surface-level conversations or sporadic dates. A partner who is genuinely interested in forming a relationship will make you a priority and be consistent in their efforts.
Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
Setting boundaries is essential to avoid situationships. Often, people end up in grey-area relationships because they don’t set or enforce their boundaries. You may find yourself in a cycle of “going with the flow” because you don’t want to push the other person away, but this only leads to frustration.
Decide what’s non-negotiable for you—whether it’s regular communication, exclusivity, or commitment by a certain time frame—and make sure those boundaries are clear. If your potential partner doesn’t respect those boundaries, it’s a sign that they’re not interested in the same level of commitment.
What to Look For: A partner who respects your boundaries without making you feel guilty. Someone serious about a relationship will understand the importance of boundaries and will work with you to build a mutually respectful dynamic.
Final Thoughts
Situationships often happen because one or both partners are afraid to have real conversations about their needs. Avoiding another situationship requires you to be clear about your intentions, pay attention to consistency, and set firm boundaries. By being intentional and assertive in your dating life, you’re far more likely to attract a partner who’s ready to build something real and lasting.
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