It is a good relationship advice that once you do go exclusive, you must inform everyone else you've been dating dial you are no longer on the market.
This is best done by dropping "my boyfriend" into your conversations.
Confirm their suspicions with a simple, "Yes, we've decided not to see other people." Or, if you are the overzealous type and your new S.O. is not easily embarrassed, you could consider hiring one of those planes to fly a banner reading, "Norm and Dotty: Each other's one and only (until further notice)."
Once you've decided your new S.O. is It for Now, our best relationship advice is that you need to broach the topic officially. Relationships thrive most when both partners take turns stepping up to the plate. Set an example by doing so now.
The Talk
• Respect the gravity of The Talk by not launching into it while you're naked or scantily clothed. No need to wear business attire, but you should be fully clothed, with shoes. (You'll be prepared should The Talk go sour.)
• Wait until you're alone. Do not conduct The Talk in front of others, no matter how close they may be. (Pets are okay.)
• Do not have The Talk while either of you is trying to fall asleep. Be sure that both of you are fully conscious.
• The Talk should take place face-to-face, in a quiet atmosphere, so you can hear each other clearly. (Warning: "exclusive" can easily be misheard as "obtrusive" or "elusive.")
• Get your partner's attention with the classic, "Can we talk seriously for a moment?"
• Maintaining steady eye contact, begin by telling your partner how much you enjoy spending time together. Then get immediately to the point: Say, "I'm not interested in seeing anyone else. What do you say we go exclusive?"
• If your S.O. says yes, great. Celebrate with a special night out. If not, well, you took your best shot. You should probably move off the couch and out the door. (Good thing you already have your shoes on.)
Jodie Brittain is the CEO of Australian Online Dating site, Slinky - the Aussie-only Online Dating Service for men and women looking for friends and relationships. Join dating singles from all over Australia and Perth for Free!
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