Dating Dilemmas Knowing when to take the next Step in a Relationship

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It can be difficult to know when to take the next step in a relationship, no matter what that step is. There are some signs that may lead you to make this move.
Your feelings for the person are stronger than your current status dictates
If you are just casually dating someone but are starting to feel very strongly for them, then it may be time to take that next step and ask her to be your girlfriend. If you suddenly realize that you want to be with your boyfriend forever, then it may be time to contemplate marriage. Think about how you feel and whether your feelings have increased.
You feel like you are ready for the next step
Sometimes it is not about emotions like love but about feeling like the time is right for the next step. For instance, perhaps you have felt like you loved your girlfriend for a long time but you just did not feel like you were ready to be married to someone and put forth that commitment. Suddenly it just feels right to move to that step.
You want to spend more time with the other person, have the added intimacy or otherwise realize the benefits of the next step
Oftentimes the next level of a relationship involves more time spent together. It may be about moving from a date a week to seeing them several times or even going from separate apartments to a shared home. If you feel like you are always missing this person and want the added closeness that the next step provides, then it may be time to move on. Also, added intimacy, both physically and mentally, is often a part of the deepening the relationship. You may want the other benefits of a stronger bond such as wanting to get married so that you can have children.
You think that the other person is ready as well
A successful and healthy relationship is made of two people who feel the same way about the relationship. Even if you feel that the above conditions are true, if the other person is clearly not ready, then it may not be time for that next step. You may get a feeling that it is time, or you may have a frank conversation with your significant other.
Obstacles have been overcome
Oftentimes people are stopped by certain obstacles from taking a relationship to the next level. One may be afraid, there may be another person involved, someone may need to overcome personal issues, etc. Look for those to be resolved to the point that the next level seems reasonable.
Taking a relationship to the next level is a big step, and timing is everything. Do it too soon and you can sabotage your relationship but wait for too long and your relationship may stagnate. The above tips can help you make the decision to move on.