Is the August theory your sign to start over?
Sometimes it seems like there’s a new relationship trend every month that determines whether or not you will find your soulmate. First it was the sofa-theory we all love you Marc. Me for specific reasons of course‘retromancing’, but nowadays TikTok is flooded with the August-theory. This month would actually turn your entire love life upside down (for the right reasons). But is it really true that one month determines everything? We’ll find out for you, with the help of some experts. Of course.
What exactly is the August-theory?
Well. Basically, it’s simply the idea that August is the turning point for your love life. This is the moment when all summer vacations come to an end, your daily rhythm slowly returns, and you suddenly have less desire for casual dating. You start to crave something with more substance. It’s a psychological process, according to relationship expert Erika Kaplan. She believes that a wave of closeness follows because you’re ready for more stability. You get exes reaching out who suddenly text you or almost-connections that become serious. Suddenly all your single friends want to open themselves up for the fall. So it’s nothing magical, but more of a collective mental reset.
@ash_bradford shout out to @Sal & Al ✰ TWO BROKE CHICKS for blowing my mind at the gym this morning with the August theory
@camfant
Does all of this really just come from the month of August?
That reset does indeed feel like August takes the reins for a moment. August is, just like January, a transitional moment when you start to think about your priorities. This includes relationships that you will reevaluate. You’re back from vacation, but the autumn rush of your job, school, or whatever hasn’t kicked in yet. There’s time to think about who you are and what you actually want. And yes, that cozy period of fall, Christmas, and New Year’s also gives you the feeling that you don’t want to be alone. That combination works like a ticking clock that gives all singles a push to ‘get to work’ on things.
How to deal with (and benefit from) the August-theory
1. It doesn’t have to be fast, you’re not a EuroStar train
To begin with, this is the sign to try something new. This could be the start of something beautiful, but you don’t have to rush. Use your energy more to think about what you really want and not to say half-heartedly yes to every Tinder match, only to end up crying on the couch after being disappointed again.
2. Breathe new life into those almost-lovers
Or do you not want anyone new, but do you have an old flame somewhere in an archived WhatsApp chat? Then this could be a great moment to reconnect. Just be honest with yourself: does this still really work or are you just looking for a nostalgia kick?
3. Expect a storm of messages
Oh, and yes: prepare for people coming back from all corners of the world. Because just like you, other people are also going to try to resolve all loose ends this month. Keep your sound on, because before you know it, the DMs and late-night texts will come flooding in.
4. Let it happen ‘organically’
Don’t want to chase after something or someone? Then you can just let it come to you. The universe will do its work. Say yes to the last summer outings. Refresh your dating profile with new photos and show yourself. If someone is meant to come into your life, they will find their way to you. But you do need to be out and about, because you won’t find them just lying in your bed. Sorry not sorry.
So the August-theory is not a prediction from an Etsy witch with tarot cards and candlelight. It’s just the sign that you are allowed to be there and maybe you should try to embrace something new or old.
