Clarify Your Intentions
What are you actually looking for? Understanding your intentions helps you communicate honestly and find compatible connections.
Common Dating Intentions
Which of these resonates with where you are right now? There's no right or wrong answer – only honest and dishonest ones.
Serious Relationship
Life partner, marriage, building a future together
Signs this is you:
- You crave deep emotional connection
- You're looking for long-term compatibility
- You want to build something lasting with someone
- You're ready for commitment and growth together
Tips:
- Be upfront about your intentions early on
- Look for people with similar long-term goals
- Take your time – don't rush into commitment
- Watch for red flags and trust your instincts
Casual Dating
Fun, light, seeing what's out there
Signs this is you:
- You want to meet new and interesting people
- You're not ready for serious commitment
- You want to keep things light and enjoyable
- You're exploring what you like and don't like
Tips:
- Be honest about wanting to keep things casual
- Don't lead people on who want more
- Check in regularly about expectations
- It's okay for casual to become serious if both parties want that
Self-Discovery & Exploration
Learning about yourself through connections
Signs this is you:
- You're questioning your preferences or attractions
- You want to explore your sexuality or identity
- You're discovering what you want after a major life change
- You're redefining yourself post-breakup
Tips:
- Be honest with partners that you're exploring
- Prioritise consent and communication
- It's okay not to have all the answers
- Take things at your own pace
Companionship
Connection without romantic pressure
Signs this is you:
- You want someone to do things with
- Romance isn't your priority right now
- You value friendship as a foundation
- You prefer low-pressure connection
Tips:
- Be clear that you're seeking companionship
- Don't rule out where things might lead
- Focus on shared interests and activities
- Communicate openly about boundaries
Honestly Not Sure
And that's perfectly okay
Signs this is you:
- You're open to possibilities
- Different people bring out different desires
- You're still figuring out what you want
- Your needs may change over time
Tips:
- It's okay to date without a fixed agenda
- Be honest when asked about intentions
- Check in with yourself regularly
- Let connections develop naturally
Self-Reflection Worksheet
Answer these questions honestly. Your responses are saved locally and you can download them when finished.
Intentions Worksheet
Take your time with these questions. Your honest reflections will help you understand what you're really looking for – and communicate it to potential partners.
The Most Important Thing
Whatever your intentions are, be honest about them – with yourself and with the people you date. Mismatched intentions cause the most hurt in dating.
It's okay for your intentions to change over time. Just communicate when they do.