Dating to relationship timeline

"There is much more that goes into maintaining a long term partnership; it's not just be all about lust and pheromones," Susan McCord, dating coach and talk show host, tells Bustle. "Relationships take work and need to be nurtured." As you go further along in your relationship, your partner should be putting a good amount of effort into the relationship. The "busy" excuse won't cut it. If someone wants to be with you, they'll make time. You will be a priority.

It's tough to realize that the person you're dating isn't putting in enough effort to be in a committed relationship with you. But as Coleman says, "You can't keep someone interested if they're not." Besides, why waste your time and effort trying to make a relationship happen if it's not meant to?

On the other hand, it's so easy to get hung up on timelines, especially when you first start dating. There's no shame in wanting commitment and exclusivity once you're realized your feelings. But just remember, every relationship is different. For some, life circumstances will only allow them to have two or three dates over the course of three months. For others, getting engaged after three months just feels right. If your relationship is making you feel anxious because you haven't done this, this, and that, by your third month together, don't panic just yet. If you and your partner can openly communicate about where things are at and where it's going, you're on the right track.

Experts

Anna Morgenstern, dating coach

Toni Coleman, LCSW, psychotherapist and relationship coach

Emily Pfannenstiel, licensed professional counselor

Samantha Daniels, dating expert, founder of Samantha’s Table Matchmaking

Susan McCord, dating coach for millennials