How to Officially Make a Relationship in Quarantine Official

Many of us have found ourselves in a unique position where our relationship dynamics have been heavily influenced by the quarantine period. After months of exclusively communicating online, it can be tempting and perhaps also daunting to take the next step and make this relationship official. This article will guide you through the process and help you articulate your feelings.

Long-Distance Dating vs. Quarantine Dating

Long-term relationships, especially those initiated under the constraints of quarantine, are a blend of romance, communication, and shared experiences. However, unlike traditional long-distance relationships, which might span months or years, quarantine relationships often develop rapidly due to the limited space and shared experiences of being in isolation.

For instance, many couples started off with regular video calls, online games, and shared hobbies. As time went on, these activities evolved, becoming a significant part of the relationship. Eventually, the partners shared deeper, more intimate conversations and began to share their hopes and dreams for the future.

Addressing the Fear of Taking the Next Step

One of the common challenges in making a relationship official during quarantine is the fear of being too aggressive or pushing the relationship too quickly. It's crucial to remember that both partners should be open to the idea and feel comfortable with their relationship status.

For example, the author of the original post and their fiancé spent almost a year dating long-distance through online interactions before officially declaring their relationship. This period allowed them to build a strong foundation, despite never meeting in person.

Discussing Exclusive Contact

During the initial stages of declaring a relationship to be official, it's important to discuss and document the timeline of mutual exclusivity. The lack of in-person interactions might complicate this process, but clear communication can help both partners feel more secure in their commitment.

As mentioned in the original post, the author and their fiancé found it challenging to decide when their relationship could be considered an anniversary due to the evolving nature of their connection. Similarly, it's important to agree on when your quarantine romance began as an official relationship before making it official.

Assertiveness and Communication

It's important to remember that as the desire for more intimate moments grows, so does the urgency to make the relationship official. If you're ready for a more serious commitment, don't hesitate to express your feelings to your partner.

The author of the original post notes that their partner occasionally refers to them as "babe," which can be misleading. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding your expectations and intentions for the relationship.

Conclusion

Dating in quarantine provides a unique opportunity for deep, meaningful connections. However, making this relationship official requires careful planning and clear communication. Here are a few tips to help:

Discuss the timeline of your exclusive connection and establish an official start date. Be assertive and express your feelings clearly to your partner. Avoid misleading language like referring to your partner as "babe" without confirming mutual intentions. Consider your partner's thoughts and feelings to ensure you both are on the same page.

Remember, taking the next step in your relationship is a significant milestone. By approaching it with thoughtfulness and clear communication, you can create a strong foundation for a successful relationship, no matter the circumstances.