Everyone would agree that dating as a single person is much different than dating in a relationship. The former, generally, might be a bit heavier on the pocket since you’re trying to court not only one but often multiple people.
It is easy for your finances to take a hit during cuffing season, especially if you don’t plan ahead. Lucky for you, we have some tips to help you get your ducks in a row.
Step 1 – What Are Your Intentions?
First of all, you need to determine your intentions for dating – is it for fun, some friends with benefits, or a relationship? Since your spending pattern greatly depends on what you’re looking for during dating season, it’s best to plan your expenses accordingly.
Through this, you’d also want to determine your dating ground – bars, dating apps, networking events, church, club, you can find a potential partner almost anywhere.
Step 2 – Types of Dates
When on a date, it’s normally the energy you bring that seals the deal, not how much you spend on dinner. Now, there are many types of dates – the “impress me” dates, the “cheap” dates, the “build rapport” dates. Now a common mistake people tend to make is going all-in too quickly.
While you do want your date to like you, it’s important that you don’t burn a hole through your savings for the cause. Wouldn’t you feel stupid if, after spending hundreds of dollars on dates, they decide to call it quits? Take our advice and slow it down a little. Leave the “impress me” date when you’re sure you’re both on the same page and would like to move things forward.
Step 3 – Are You Ready?
If you’re in a financially tight spot, just step back and think about whether dating would be the best decision for you, given the circumstances. If you’re looking at selling your stuff or starting a side gig just to muddle through your dating expenses, we’d say it would be best to sit this year out.
Definitely go for those money-making options, but perhaps it’d be better to save a bit before you start spending money on someone else.
Wrapping It Up
As a final thought, for the “who pays for the date?” thing, make this your rule of thumb – whoever requests the date pays for it, too.
If your partner offers to pay the first time, take it into notice. The next time you decide to go out, let the bill linger on the table for a while or even ask them if they’re comfortable splitting it!