WTH is Cuffing Season?
It’s that time of year again, the leaves are falling, it’s getting dark earlier, and people are cozying up for the upcoming holiday season – it’s cuffing season.
What is cuffing season?
Cuffing season is a modern dating term used to describe the general feeling singles have in the fall of “Oh shit. The holidays are around the corner, maybe I should make one of these date options stick.”
If you find yourself in a newly blossoming romance after divorce, it might make you ask the question – “Am I making this work because I want it, or does the idea of a first holiday alone just scare the shit out of me?”
Who does it affect?
Anyone currently dating can be affected by cuffing season. Whether you’re the one actively “cuffing” or not, open communication aboutwhat you’re lookingfor is incredibly important.
When is it?
Cuffing season is between October and February – referring to the time that many singles would like to be “cuffed” or “coupled up” for the cold months, but single for the summer.
As serotonin levels drop with the temperature, it’s easier to stay at home where it’s warm and comfortable than to force yourself to meet your new online match at a bar downtown.
How do I navigate it?
Singles can handle “cuffing season” the same as they would with any dating situation – you have to be honest with yourself and do what is right for you.
Want to make sure you’re not falling for a cuffing season romance without having set boundaries? Download the Dating After Divorce reflection journal here.
After all, the only thing worse than being single this time of year is choosing a different version of your ex.
What should I look out for?
Here are a few signs your relationship might be over after cuffing season:
You feel like things are moving at an accelerated rate.
There’s a sense of urgency to “lock things down”.
They make holiday party plans as a couple only after a few dates.
Holidays are toughfor newly separated or divorced singles. Throw in possibly not having your children or other family members around for the first time and it can make anyone feel a little desperate.
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