We’re Debunking 7 Common Misconceptions About Being Relationship-Ready
Relationship-ready.
You've probably heard that term multiple times and aren't still quite sure what it means, or if you are in fact relationship-ready, yourself.
The truth is, it's different for everyone. There's no real way to measure if you're qualified to enter a partnership. That said, you'll know when you know.
To paint a better picture of what it actually entails, we've decided to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about being relationship-ready. Scroll below to see what they are:
Misconception No. 1: It's Easier to Find Love When You're Relationship-Ready
Just because you're relationship-ready doesn't mean potential partners are going to find you any easier than someone who isn't relationship-ready. There are plenty of people who aren't ready for that type of commitment, but are in relationships. And then there are others who've been relationship-ready for quite some time, but still have trouble finding the one. Being relationship-ready doesn't guarantee you a relationship. It only means you'll have a stronger foundation going into one than those who aren't prepared for a partnership.
Misconception No. 2: Once You're Ready, You're Ready Forever
Being relationship-ready should not be treated like a final destination. You're a person who's constantly evolving, much like a Pokémon. Yes, we made that joke, and we're not apologizing for doing so. Thank you for partaking in this brief intermission, now back to the subject at hand.
You have to continually work to maintain your relationship-ready status. As with most things in life, it has its own expiration date. So if you don't constantly work on it, it'll leave quicker than it came. Think of it this way: Athletes don't just become star players overnight and then never work on honing their technique ever again. They have to practice, practice, practice to stay in tip-top performance shape.
(Chilling Adventures of Sabrina via Netflix)
Misconception No. 3: It Happens at the Same Age for Everyone
This is incredibly false, but one that many tend to believe. Yes, dating and relationships tend to get a bit easier as you grow older, but you can be relationship-ready at any age. Where one person may feel that way at a very young age, another may not reach that point until they're farther along in life. It all depends on the individual in question, but it's definitely not at the same age for everyone.
Misconception No. 4: You Don't Need to Do Anything to Find a Partner
Somewhat similar to the first misconception, many people who know they're relationship-ready feel as though their partners will find them. They think that just by giving off this vibe of wanting a partnership, that perfect someone will just waltz right into their life without question. If that's how it worked, we'd all constantly be in relationships. While we do wish dating was a bit easier, you need to put in the work if you really want to find a good partner. In short, being relationship-ready doesn't mean you don't have to date and that your person will drop right out of the sky and into your life.
(Beauty and the Beast via Buena Vista Pictures)
Misconception No. 5: If You're Relationship-Ready, You Can Make Someone You're Interested in Relationship-Ready
One of the worst parts about being relationship-ready is wanting to be with someone who isn't. You may believe that you can change their status, based on your own, but that's not how this works. People have to become relationship-ready on their own terms. Again, this process is different for everyone. Maybe it'll take them a month to get to your level, or it could take years and years and years. Moral of the story: Don't get too caught up in someone who's clearly not ready to commit. We know you don't want to hear that, but we're just looking out for you.
Misconception No. 6: You Can Only Be in a Relationship If You're Relationship-Ready
As we've said before, there are plenty of people in relationships right now who aren't relationship-ready. When you enter a partnership with someone, you don't need to present them with some sort of identification detailing that you're relationship-ready, seeing as it's more of a feeling than something tangible. So if you're not relationship-ready and you want to date or are already seeing someone, keep doing you. If it's working, it's working. And maybe you'll slowly become relationship-ready throughout the process. But if you're relationship-ready and not totally into dating, that brings us to our final misconception.
(The Princess Switch via Netflix)
Misconception No. 7: You Have to Be in a Relationship If You're Relationship-Ready
You might be relationship ready, but not feel like dating or even being in a relationship for that matter. And guess what? That's totally okay. There's this massive misconception that once you're relationship-ready, this is now the time to commit yourself to someone else. You have to do it or you'll lose your relationship-ready status. We've said it before and we'll say it again: Being relationship-ready is not a final destination; it's something you have to work to maintain constantly. Maybe you'd rather work on it by yourself before entering a partnership. Do it. You know what's best for you better than anyone. To end on the cheesiest of notes, always follow your heart.
Want to know if you're really ready for that type of commitment? Take THIS quiz to discover if you're ready to be in a relationship.