You might have heard the term ‘cuffing season’ before. You might have even found yourself craving relationships and affection more during the colder months.
But if you’re not familiar with this trend, the term ‘cuffing season’ refers to the winter months, when the weather gets colder, and we naturally spend more time indoors. As a result, we are more likely to crave companionship. Think big cosy blankets, crackling fireplaces, festive evenings out at Christmas markets and warming cups of mulled wine.
Who wouldn’t feel more romantic at this time of year?
But while cuffing season might sound like a heartwarming prospect, resembling the end credits of a festive rom-com, it is not without its challenges.
Why cuffing season is potentially problematic when you’re looking for love
When you’re looking for a relationship, the idea of lots of other individuals also looking for love sounds like a good thing, right?
The trouble is, ‘cuffing’ generally refers to a temporary mindset, with many approaching this season as a way of having companionship for just a few months. This is not always good news if you’re looking for something long-term. Cuffing season also has some other potential pitfalls, as the desire for warmth and comfort can lead to clouded judgements. This increased pressure to pair up, often without fully considering compatibility, can cause you to overlook red flags or mismatched values.
Not only this, but festive stress in the build-up to Christmas and New Year can lead to increased pressure to find a partner, the ‘do I, don’t I’ of gifting-giving, and those premature ‘meet the family’ moments.
Lastly, focusing on short-term dating during cuffing season can take your time and energy away from finding someone who truly aligns with your long-term goals. Entering a relationship purely for comfort can distract you from finding a partner who is a genuine match.
So, while it might feel very magical, romanticising this season can create a false sense of connection that quickly fades when the season ends.
Tips for dating during cuffing season and using this to your advantage
With many more people out there looking for comfort and companionship at this time of year, cuffing season is arguably one of the best times to look for a partner.
However, you don’t want to leave yourself vulnerable to those who are only in it for the short term – unless that is what you want, of course.
If you’re looking for a genuine, long-term connection, make sure to keep these expert tips in mind during the colder months:
Be open and honest about your intentions
Before you dive into the seasonal dating pool, it’s important to reflect on whether you’re looking for a seasonal fling, a long-term relationship or simply companionship.
You then need to communicate this clearly, letting any potential matches know your intentions. This avoids any mismatched expectations or possible upsets on both sides.
Focus on building genuine connections
Despite there typically being a bigger dating pool at this time of year, it’s best to invest time in fewer people rather than juggling multiple of casual dates.
This gives you the opportunity to go beyond surface-level conversations, discussing values, long-term goals and future aspirations.
Embrace seasonal activities
This time of year offers plenty of opportunities for fun and cosy activities, so why not make the most of it?
You can plan dates around activities you’ll both enjoy, such as light displays, holiday concerts, festive baking, movie marathons or Christmas markets.
Work with the experts
Dating apps will be bursting with singles looking for someone to ‘cuff’ with during this cosy season, which is why it’s better to avoid these platforms.
Instead, work with expert matchmakers to ensure you’re matched with like-minded people who are also looking for a committed relationship, not just someone to keep them warm in the winter months.
Don’t rush your dating journey
Beware of settling just because it’s cuffing season. It can be emotionally damaging pairing up with someone incompatible and it can set back your dating journey
Instead, pace yourself and take the time to get to know them and build a meaningful connection, rather than rushing into something just to avoid being alone.
As part of this, you should resist the temptation to lower your standards. Just because it’s cuffing season, you should avoid seasonal pressure and stick to what you know you need in a long-term partner.
Prioritise your own self-care
Finally, it’s crucial that you stay balanced and don’t lose yourself in the process of finding love.
Be mindful of your own emotional availability and encourage communication so that you can steer clear of anyone who seems more interested in avoiding loneliness than in building a real connection.
Self-care is so important at this time of year, especially when you’re on a dating journey. By putting our tips in place, you will find the right person for you that will last into the warmer months.
If you’re looking for love this cuffing season and you want some help building genuine connections with like-minded people, get in touch with our expert team of matchmakers today.
