Whether you’re just dipping your toes in the water or looking for a long-term relationship, here are a few relationship hacks everyone should know.
1) Figure out what you really want
Dating during the pandemic posed a lot of challenges. However, it has also given us an opportunity to be more selective about who we match with, talk to and eventually meet. In order to get the most out of your dating experience, it’s important to know what you’re looking for from dates or in a committed relationship.
Ask yourself these questions to get started:
Thinking through these types of questions can help you get a better sense of what you really want.
If you're using dating apps, these questions can also help you tailor your profile and create filters. For instance, if you’re looking for something casual, you may want to consider filtering out people who are looking for a relationship or vice versa. Using these types of features and being honest about what you want allows you to set clear expectations and match with people who want similar things.
2) Communicate and uphold your boundaries
Boundaries represent the limits, rules or expectations that we set in order to protect our own well-being. Setting healthy boundaries can help us navigate relationships in a more positive way and avoid feelings of anger, resentment or burnout.
Communicating our boundaries is an important part of any relationship, especially if we plan to be intimate with someone. Before you hop on your favorite app, agree to meet up or engage in sexual activities, think through your relationship boundaries.
Here are a few examples to consider:
Thinking about potential red flags can also be a good way to identify your boundaries. Remember to communicate your boundaries with potential partners so you can be on the same page.
Most importantly, be honest about your expectations, and trust your gut. If someone dismisses your boundaries or pushes you to do something you’re not comfortable with, they’re probably not a good fit.
3) Embrace authenticity and connection
As humans, we’re hardwired to seek out clarity, safety and stability in our relationships. However, modern dating culture often emphasizes more casual interactions and low accountability. We may feel pressured to play it cool, be chill, minimize what we want/need or avoid committing too early. Ultimately, these dating norms and expectations can cause increased anxiety and uncertainty in our relationships.
One way to combat this is to intentionally embrace authenticity and connection. Allow your true self to shine through, whether you’re dating online or in person. Build a profile that reflects who you really are. Don’t be afraid to showcase your personality through your photos, questionnaires or bio! Staying true to your authentic self can also help you be more open to making meaningful connections. Seek out people who have shared interests, appreciate your quirks and allow you to be yourself. It’s also important to remember that you can take your time. Dating is a slow dance. Try to enjoy it, and use it as an opportunity to get to know other people (and yourself).
4) Stay healthy
The rules for socializing have changed significantly over the past couple of years, and this can leave us feeling anxious to go out in person. If you’re concerned about the health risks, consider sticking to virtual options or try some of these more distanced date ideas:
Keep in mind that your dating life can also have an impact on the people around you, including those you live with. Take some time to talk with them and make a plan ahead of time to keep everyone healthy in case you do get sick.
Resources
While relationships may feel easy and great, they can also be rocky or challenging. There are resources available for relationship support, self-exploration and more.
Let’s Talk
Let’s Talk is a free service where CU Boulder students can meet for an informal, brief and confidential consultation with a counselor. Let’s Talk counselors can help provide insight, solutions and information about additional resources. Students commonly visit with concerns about stress, sadness, worry, relationships, academic performance, family problems and financial struggles.
Group therapy
CAPS offers process groups that provide a supportive space for students to deepen self-understanding and explore ways of relating more comfortably to others. This group is also designed to help students learn to deal with feelings of depression and anxiety, family dynamics and other personal concerns.
Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free, confidential trauma-focused counseling, advocacy, information and referrals for all CU community members, including undergrad and graduate students, staff and faculty. They specialize in addressing current and past life-disruptive events, including but not limited to, crime, trauma, sexual assault, partner abuse, experiences of bias, harassment, discrimination, assault, other abuse and violence.
Peer Wellness Coaching
Peer wellness coaches are trained students who can help their fellow Buffs navigate their time at CU. They are here to help students set and achieve their goals related to academic success, relationships, time management, personal wellness and more.
Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
SCCR offers free conflict coaching and other resources for working through disagreements. They’re here to help students build stronger relationships with friends, roommates, professors and other people in your life.
Stalking
While stalking often is directed at someone from a previous intimate relationship, it can also occur between former friends, roommates or someone the person has never met before, including matches from dating apps. Learn how to identify stalking behaviors and connect with resources.
Intimate partner abuse
Intimate partner abuse occurs in relationships that are or have been intimate. Abuse can take many forms, including verbal, emotional, physical, psychological, sexual, financial or reproductive abuse. Learn how to identify intimate partner abuse and connect with resources or learn the difference between healthy and abusive behaviors in a relationship.
Sexual assault
Sexual violence can have lasting impacts on individuals and communities. Learn about sexual assault, consent and resources available for students.