Dating a Friend: Why It Could Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

You're looking for love, but are you ready for a committed relationship? You may be turning down a lot of great potential partners because they want something serious and you don't. Or because the timing was wrong at one point and you agreed to just be friends.

But what if there's someone that you already know well who you hadn't considered as a romantic partner before? Both men and women have had the experience of being friend-zoned and it's extremely difficult to break out of that role. Why not give dating a friend a try?

If you're looking for a casual relationship or to just date around, then dating friends might not be the best idea. There are downsides--sometimes expressing interest in dating could be opening yourself up to some soft rejection. It could also alter a friendship that is going really well. But if you're looking for a more serious relationship, it might be worth the risk of changing your friendship dynamics to find something that's even better than what exists today.

The Upside to Dating Friends: As a woman, approaching a male friend about dating can overcome some gender norms in dating and relationships. Taking a proactive step early on can help establish an early balance in a long term relationship.

You already know this person and they know you. You can skip getting to know someone all over again, which is a relief for many people who are exhausted from dating. With a friend, It's easier to establish boundaries because there are no expectations of exclusivity right off the bat - or even at any point during your friendship if that's just not going to happen.

However, If things go well with your friend, then you won't need to worry about being rejected because it's their idea that dating should be casual or friends only. They 'll be the one calling you to hang out and making plans with you.

It's easier for friends to get that second chance than it is for strangers because there's already a mutual understanding of what your relationship means. You'll know if they're interested in getting more serious, but won't have to risk feeling like an idiot by waiting around for something that will never happen.

As a result, you can take things at your own pace and stop or start the relationship whenever you feel like it. You'll know what to expect from each other but also be able to enjoy spending time together without expectations.

It's easier for friends to get that second chance in the case of early mistakes than it is for strangers because there's already a mutual understanding of what your relationship means.

If you're not sure about a friendship, it's better to stay friends than risk making things awkward by trying for something more and getting rejected. When dating someone new, people often set themselves up for heartbreak because they think the person is 'the one.'

This could really be worth a bold move!