Do you know the difference between just dating and marriage-minded dating? Yes, there are different approaches to dating!

Many people are out there dating and it’s not for the reasons you think. 

Some are dating to validate their desirability. Others are dating to prevent loneliness, to have an activity partner, or to have a physical encounter. 

Just dating is being open to date almost anyone they’re attracted to without regard to where they’re going in life, whether values are aligned or even being compatible. 

On the other hand, marriage-minded dating is dating with a purpose. If you’re a marriage-minded dater, you want dating to lead to something more serious. You want to find an exclusive relationship that will lead to marriage.

People who are just dating don’t have timeframes in mind. They’re go-with-the-flow people. They’re not thinking of the future. So, they’re more likely to be “enjoy the moment” people.

Marriage-minded people have a specific timeframe in mind for how long to date until they decide when to get engaged and married. They’re more aware of the time they’re spending with someone.

When I was in my late 30s and motivated to marry, I expected to be engaged within 6 to 8 months of being exclusive with my partner. If I didn’t see the serious intent, then I had to have that serious conversation or decide to move on. 

When someone’s just dating, they’ll put themselves online or go to in-person social events. They’re going out and just enjoy being part of a group to meet people without regard to meeting one specific person for dating. Or they may simply be looking to “hook up”.

People who are just dating will take advantage of opportunities that pop up to go to social events and meet new people. And if they meet a person to date, they won’t share their actual goal of dating. They’re not planning their schedule and free time around meeting someone special.

Singles who are engaging in marriage-minded dating will do what it takes to meet that special person. They’re also very careful about how they spend their time.

So, they’ll go online. And when they do have free time, they seek out events where they have a greater chance of meeting other marriage-minded individuals and participate in groups that support people meeting each other. They’ll also ask their close friends to introduce them to someone who’s also seriously searching. (They may even shell out the big bucks to hire a matchmaker!)

For example, a marriage-minded dater will choose to attend a speed dating event for men and women in their age group. Or they’ll accept a social invitation from a friend if there are likely to be other seriously searching singles attending. 

Also, singles who are dating for marriage will spend their money on activities, events, and coaching support that will introduce them to someone who is also marriage-minded.  

People who are simply dating will do activities that serve them best without regard to whether there is anyone there to date. They also won’t necessarily consider their goals when making purchases. They’ll pick activities that are fun and fulfilling. Not that there is anything wrong with that. They’re just in a different place in their life. 

With marriage-minded dating, a person will communicate their relationship goals within 3 to 6 dates. They do this because they’re seeking a partner who shares those goals. 

When you’re just dating, you won’t put the emphasis on the purpose of the dating. Most likely you’re enjoying your time together with no strings attached.

And with marriage-minded dating, there are certain behaviors that you’ll observe. Your partner will want to introduce you to their friends and family. They’ll plan trips with you. They’ll make plans regularly with you and desire to spend their free time with you. And they’ll make you a priority in their life. 

This won’t happen with people who are just dating with no real goals in mind.

I hope I’ve given you some telltale signs that someone is seeking a marriage partner so the next time you’re out there dating, you can be more aware and strategic about how you’re going about your marriage-minded dating.

My goal is to help you save your precious time and find the right kind of partner for whatever goals you’ve set. 

If I can help make your journey easier (and less frustrating), then let’s talk. Let’s get you on the right path to finding lasting love.

And if you’re looking for more marriage-minded dating tips and strategies, consider joining The Motivated to Marry Dating Secrets Coaching Club. Go to www.MotivatedtoMarryDatingSecrets.com and join a vibrant community of marriage-minded men and women who are supporting each other in their journey to find true love. Learn how to date the Motivated to Marry Way!

I’ve got you,

Coach Amy