An expert has devised nine questions you should always ask your date in order to make sure they're in it for the long-haul.
Dating in 2024 became a bit of a minefield, let's not lie. With new dating trends left, right and centre, it's no wonder people's priorities are switching up.
According to dating app Bumble, singles in 2025 are going to have a huge focus on 'future proofing' their relationships. And 95% of singles said their hopes for the future impacted who exactly they chose to date.
First dates are pretty much always awkward, and coming up with conversation can often be a struggle.
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But professional relationships counsellor, known as Therapy Jeff on TikTok, has come up with a list of nine questions you should definitely be asking.
Unless of course it's a one-off thing, in which case, ask what you like!
Does anyone else think they’re in a relationship with you right now?
I mean, it sounds ridiculous, but in the current dating sphere, it's definitely not ruled out.
Saying you’re not in a relationship is one thing, but having a situationship in the background who may feel differently about your status, is another.
This question simply rules out any unwanted surprises a little further down the line.
What’s your definition of cheating – both physical and emotional?
It seems that everyone's definition of cheating is extremely different.
Jeff said: "Be very clear here, because sometimes we have wildly different ideas of what counts as cheating.
"Talk about flirting with other people, liking hot babes on social media and watching spicy videos."
What one person thinks is totally acceptable, may be a deal breaker for another person.
What kind of relationship do you want?
With more relationship dynamics floating around than ever before, this one is important.
Jeff added: "Monogamous? Monogamish? Poly? Do you want to open it up in the future? What’s the plan? Do you even want a plan?"
They're all fair enough questions to ask.
How do you feel about living together eventually?
While it feels a bit heavy for someone you met in a bar half an hour ago, Jeff explains that establishing goals is important.
He said: "Is it a goal for you or would you prefer something like living apart together? Do you see moving in as just testing the waters or does it mean we’re definitely on the path to marriage?"
What kind of wild stuff are you into in the bedroom?
Jeff said: "You just want to understand what to expect as things heat up. It might give you something to look forward to or time to mentally prepare and get on board."
Or even decide it's completely not for you!
What’s your biggest worry about us?
"You probably have some concerns about where things might get tricky, put them on the table and see if you can talk through them," the counsellor explained.
Everyone's communication styles are different, and knowing how much or little reassurance a person needs, is handy information from the get-go.
Are you prepared to be my primary emotional support?
If you're looking for a long-term relationship, knowing you can lean on a person is extremely important.
Also letting your potential partner know what you need from them in that moment.
What are you giving the most energy to right now?
Understanding your date's priorities and interests will be helpful down the line.
Jeff explained: "Understanding this can change but, is it school? Work? Creativity? This relationship? Family? Friends? Partying?"
What do you think is important for me to know as we move forward together?
The counsellor said: "This one is open ended for a reason. See where they take it, it often leads to really honest and insightful answers."
Starting a relationship without skeletons in the closet is probably the right idea.
Topics: Dating trends, Sex and Relationships, TikTok
Mia Williams