Many people claim that millennials don't prioritize romance, but this is a misconception. The truth is, we don't have time for outdated notions of love and dating, and no one should. Additionally, our generation is unfairly associated with hook-up culture, leading others to assume that any social interaction with another person must involve sex. However, this is far from the truth. Hanging out with someone can be a meaningful and rewarding experience in itself, and often yields better results than traditional dating practices.
1. Hanging out is sort of the pre-exclusive stage of dating
In reality, you and the other person are not in an exclusive relationship. You are simply two individuals who have decided to spend time together. Doesn't that sound refreshing? Eliminating some of the uncomfortable formalities that typically accompany the early stages of a relationship would be wonderful, wouldn't it?
2. You can find out if this is actually worth your time
Is there a spark between the two of you? Are your conversations effortless? Do you have any significant moral differences that could potentially become a problem? It would be great to have this information upfront, wouldn't it? This way, you can make informed decisions before committing to a deeper and more exclusive relationship.
3. It's not all about the hook-up
This is just one of the negative connotations that come with the concept of hanging out. While some may view it as a euphemism for casual sex, at its core, hanging out is much more than that. It's not just a trendy new way of saying "Netflix and chill." In fact, it can happen anywhere - a park, a mall, a bookstore, a beach - and it's all about being laid-back and relaxed. That's precisely why hanging out is such a wonderful thing.
4. However, this is hook-up culture
It's important to acknowledge that some individuals may interpret an invitation to "hang out" as a proposition for sex. If this is something that you're open to, that's fine. However, if you're not interested in pursuing anything sexual, it's important to communicate that clearly. Let them know that you simply want to spend time together and get to know each other better. It's essential to understand that there is a significant difference between hanging out and hooking up.
5. It's less about traditional outings, more about connecting
Let go of the notion of conventional dinner and movie dates. In fact, forget about planning a formal date altogether, especially in the early stages of a relationship. Traditional dates can often be awkward, and hanging out provides a more relaxed alternative. The purpose of hanging out is to gauge your compatibility and determine if dating is a viable next step, before committing to exclusivity.
6. Hanging out prefers coffee or drinks to dinner
While it's crucial to have time to converse and get to know each other, the most significant advantage of hanging out is the lack of time commitment. Meeting up for a cup of coffee or a beer provides a more casual and flexible environment. Unlike enduring a long dinner with awkward silences, if the chemistry isn't there, you can simply finish your drink and leave. You don't have to stay for a second cup or commit to anything beyond that initial meeting.
7. You can hang out with more than one person at a time
As mentioned earlier, exclusivity is not a factor when you're hanging out. It's akin to casually dating, except it's even more laid-back. You're not required to commit to just one person, and it's perfectly acceptable to hang out with multiple people if you're interested. Additionally, since it's such a casual arrangement, there's no need to worry about hurting anyone's feelings or playing with emotions. It's simply a low-pressure way to spend time with someone.
8. There are fewer expectations and less pressure
Absolutely! Recognizing that you're not obligated to engage in forced conversation is a massive relief. The word "dating" carries with it a level of commitment and expectation, which can create tension and discomfort right from the outset. Why subject yourself to unnecessary stress? With hanging out, you can bypass all of that and simply enjoy someone's company in a more relaxed and comfortable setting.
9. The need to label everything to death disappears
While the pressure may not disappear completely, it does dissipate, at least momentarily. Hanging out is inherently laid-back, so there's no need to stress about becoming someone's girlfriend or whether your partner is ready for a more serious commitment. You're not at that stage yet, and both parties are aware of it, which puts you on the same page for once. It's a refreshing change of pace from the pressure and expectations that often come with traditional dating.
10. And you can still meet The One if you're hanging out with them
From that starting point, the relationship can develop and evolve naturally. You can start by hanging out with someone and gradually progress along the romantic spectrum. There are countless possibilities that can emerge from a relationship that flourishes in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. It's difficult not to appreciate the appeal of such an arrangement.
