Dating

Cookie jarring is the new toxic dating trend to watch out for

By Sophie Rietmulder | #!31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:003631#31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:00-2Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam202331 09pm31pm-31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:002Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam2023312023Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +02000020010pmMonday=9#!31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam10#10-09-2023#!31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:003631#\/31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:00-2Europe\/Amsterdam3131Europe\/Amsterdam202331#!31Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:00:36 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam10#

Is it just me, or are there dating trends that you need to be wary of? It seems like single Netherlands comes up with a new reason every week to avoid dating at all costs. Unfortunately, you'll have to face it if you're looking for the love of your life (or the love of the moment), so to lend you a hand, I'm more than happy to dive into the world of dating trends that you want to squash as quickly as possible. This time: cookie jarring.

Cookie jarring is a phenomenon where someone dates multiple people at the same time. They don't do this out of genuine interest, but as a sort of safety net in case the relationship they actually like the most fails. This certainly doesn't feel good for the receiving party. Feeling like you're one of many is something I absolutely cannot recommend.

The culprit in this story is the endless choice that singles have nowadays. Having countless dating options through dating apps can make people hesitant to commit to one person, for fear of missing out on something better. In such moments, this dating trend may seem convenient, but it makes no sense to treat your date as a comforting sweet snack in between. Regardless of the motives at play, it's important to address the situation effectively before people get hurt. Here are three ways you can do that.

Solution 1: Identify the signs early

Recognizing cookie jarring can be tricky, but some clues include: ongoing uncertainty and lack of commitment, one-sided effort where you do all the work, avoidance of defining the relationship, and feelings of discomfort. If you notice these signs, it's important to take action before the situation worsens.

Solution 2: Create a relationship vision board

An effective way to deal with cookie jarring is to create a vision board for your ideal relationship. This allows you to clearly define your expectations, boundaries, and needs. Share this vision with your date and observe their reaction. If that person doesn't share your vision or isn't willing to work together to improve the relationship, it may be time to step out of the situationship.

Solution 3: Consult your friends

A study published in the journal Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice emphasizes the importance of viewing your partner from a neutral third-party perspective (something your friends can help you with), which can reduce romantic conflicts and prevent future disputes. Consulting trusted friends is therefore also crucial in dealing with cookie jarring. They can provide an objective perspective and help you see how someone really is when you're too emotionally involved with someone who may be treating you as a backup.

Source: Bustle