If a couple has been getting together with some regularity they might begin to think of making a more permanent arrangement. Or maybe you are thinking that way and you want to know if the other person is, too.

There are some things that indicate a relationship is headed toward more than occasionally hanging out together.

But this stuff is never one sided. Many of us have had the experience and the unwanted pressure of someone wanting more out of a relationship than we do. So whether you want it or not here are some things to look out for that say “Heads up, Sherlock”.

1. People who are interested in a committed relationship make time for you. Other responsibilities don’t get in the way. You ARE a priority.
2. They want you to meet their family and friends. It’s a turning point. If this happens someone may be thinking less casual and more, long term.
3. Do you feel they find you physically attractive? This one is tricky. Some people might really love to have sex with you, but not love the idea of introducing you to mom and dad and their boss. It all has to happen or it’s just a recreational and temporary social connection.
4. Getting serious should take some time. Some people can fall in love and in bed in the space of a weekend and then be SO OVER IT by next week. Real takes longer and lasts longer…maybe a lifetime of love and adventure. Taking the time to really get to know someone will minimize the risk of an unpleasant surprise down the road. Over anxiousness can lead to relationship surprises, most of which are bad. My husband and I traded letters regularly while he was away at college. We covered a lot of things in those letters, including whether we wanted kids. Many men don’t want kids. If a woman pressures them into having kids, she may find herself as a single mom one day – probably not what she had in mind.
5. Communication is key. I know you’ve probably heard this before but someone who wants a real relationship and even marriage should communicate what their expectations are and what they want from their lover. They also want to know what you want from the relationship. Many people make contracts about business expectations, but they just wing it in their personal life. What’s wrong with telling your significant other what you want? That way you know what you can expect better than if you just HOPE they will give you what you want. If they don’t want to give you what you want you can simply move on to the next phase of your life.

So there you have it, 5 signs of a committed relationship. While there are others, most are obvious but only of you keep your eyes and ears open. Leave the blinders (emotional) at home so you don’t miss them. . Visit my website for More Signs of a Committed Relationship.