Quick Tips for Managing Feelings in a ‘Situationship’

It’s 2025, people are using the internet to plan perfect dates, yet still struggle to define their relationship status. Speak about ‘weird’. No labels, zero expectations, just vibes; so they say. Referring to it as a ‘situationship’. 

Whilst it feels smooth and fun in the beginning, as time goes by, feelings are likely to creep in–demanding for things to be officialized. Because like ‘normal’ couples, you’ve been texting, hanging out, and engaging in deep conversations about life—the kind you only share with someone special. 

Loving ‘you’ decides to take things to the next level, posing the ‘not so easy’ question: “so, what are we?” Only for your ‘better half’ to start stuttering like they’re connected on a bad WiFi. Leaving you grief-stricken, and bewildered on how to set yourself free. Here’s a few tips on how you can manoeuvre–real talk, real situations.

Value yourself enough to walk away

If they can plan their Spotify queue three months ahead but still “don’t know” what you mean to them, that’s a red flag. Instead of waiting for them to wake up one day with clarity, ask yourself what you want. if you’re happy with how things are, great! But if you’re giving more than just your time—especially if you’ve told them how you feel and they keep dodging the conversation—it’s time to stop. Your time, energy, and emotions aren’t things you just hand out like free samples.

Match the energy

One day, they’re blowing up your phone with memes and making plans. The next? Radio silence. You can see them online posting stories, but what about your messages? Left on read. I get it, people are busy. But, no one is that busy for someone they actually care about. If their energy is all over the place, stop waiting around. Match it. Don’t be the one always reaching out. 

Be clear about what you need from the word go

If you want something real, don’t settle for being someone’s backup. Be upfront about what you need, just like you would in a job interview. And if they still act like you’re just an option, start treating them the same way. It’s 2025—there’s no reason to chase someone who’s treating you like a free trial. Unless you’re okay with that, in which case, carry on.

Step back whenever something feels off

If you catch yourself analyzing every text—“Why did they say ‘good night’ instead of ‘sweet dreams?’” or “They used a period instead of an emoji… are they mad?”—it’s time to take a step back. This may not apply If you haven’t told them how you feel. But if you have and they’re still ignoring your feelings, stop stressing over their mixed signals. Instead, focus on people who make you feel safe and valued, not the ones who keep you second-guessing.

Choose Yourself

This is your chance to pick clarity over confusion. Pause and ask yourself: Am I happy with this? If the answer is yes, that’s great. Am I okay if nothing ever changed? If the answer is no, stop waiting for them to choose you—it’s time to choose yourself.