The initial stages of a casual relationship vs long term serious relationships

[SwordofFlame]

Are they really different? Do men and women hold off on sex and basically take things slower if they really see potential? I certainly don't act any different. I guess you can say I date casually until we decide to get a lot more serious.

[losangelena]

I'd say they're pretty much the same for me.

 

Though, I don't know. All the guys I've actually dated/been in relationships with, the sex came a little later, like date three. The guys I knew were just going to be casual things happened usually on date one.

 

But generally speaking, I don't really get into any relationship assuming it's going to get serious. I have sex if I want to have sex, then am pleasantly surprised if it turns into something serious.

[BrainMangler]

For me they start off the same. No waiting if either partner sees you as more serious relationship material (at least in my case).

[Eternal Sunshine]

I am a little more measured and cautious if the relationship has LTR potential. I can pretty much tell right away, and yes I am slower with sex. Sex is not some kind of game, it's more that I when I like a guy, I am afraid of getting hurt and being dumped after sex so I wait until I feel more secure.

 

The less I care, the easier it is for me to just have sex or do whatever. I have a certain type of guy that I would never have a LTR with but can be good fun in shorter term: crass, not that intelligent, not educated, lack of certain cultured/sophisticated vibe. However, short term to me doesn't mean being casual for months, it's couple of weeks max and I am out. Usually by that time the guys start to annoy me due to personality traits I mentioned. I also dislike wasting time.