Do you know where you stand with your man? You don't want to assume that your relationship is heading toward marriage when he's just looking for a fling. That's why it's important to talk to him to really define the relationship. Of course, if you don't want to ask, you can probably figure it out on your own. Here are a few of the major differences between having a boyfriend and having a serious boyfriend:
1. He’s Bought You Flowers Vs He’s Bought You Tampons
A good boyfriend will buy you flowers randomly, just to make you smile. He might even come home with a pack of your favorite candy. However, a serious boyfriend will go the extra mile. He'll push aside his embarrassment and buy you tampons or pads. He'll never get the wrong ones, either, because he knows exactly what brand you use.2. You've Used His Bed Vs You've Used His Toilet
You might've slept over your boyfriend's house a few times. That means you're used to using his pillows and blankets. However, if you're serious with him, then you've probably used his toilet to do more than just pee. Unless you're in a serious relationship, you wouldn't risk stinking up his bathroom.Snapshot Survey
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3. If He Knows Your Dreams Vs if He Knows Your Flaws
A regular boyfriend will know what you want to do with your life. However, a serious boyfriend will know more than that. He'll also know about all of your "flaws," because he'll witness them firsthand. Of course, he won't consider them flaws, because he'll love even the most awkward parts of you.4. He’s Seen You Naked Vs He’s Seen You without Makeup
It's one thing to let your boyfriend see you naked. It's completely different to let him see you without makeup--or even worse, with your acne cream on. If he's seen that, you two are definitely serious.***
undeniably comfortable with each other. Serious boyfriends have moved past the superficialities. They've seen you in your most raw and vulnerable states and still give you that look of adoration. Think about it, the guy who still thinks you're the prettiest when your face is bare and your hair is in a messy bun, he's a keeper. That kind of intimacy is built on trust and acceptance, laying the foundation for something much deeper than just physical attraction. It's a clear sign he's in it for the long haul.
5. He’s Met Your Friends Vs He Knows Secrets about Your Friends
A regular boyfriend will know the names of all of your friends. He might even consider them to be friends of his own. However, a serious boyfriend will know every last detail about your friends, because you'll always talk to him about them. He knows things that he never even wanted to know.***
He will have heard all the inside jokes and intimate details; those little stories that you share about the times you've had with your friends. A serious boyfriend isn't just someone who remembers their birthdays or hangs out in the group—he's someone who understands their importance to you. He listens actively when you share your worries about them and offers his support or advice. It's as if he has become a trusted confidant not only for you but also in the dynamics of your wider circle, showing his investment in your life beyond just the relationship.
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6. You Know His Schedule Vs You Know His Passwords
A regular boyfriend will know what days you're free and what days you have to work. However, a serious boyfriend will know the password to your phone's lock screen, and will know where you store the extra key to your house. There won't be any secrets between the two of you.7. He Plans Next Week's Dates with You Vs He Plans Years into the Future
This is the biggest difference of all between a regular boyfriend and a serious boyfriend. A regular boyfriend will make plans with you for next week. However, a serious boyfriend will make plans with you for ten years down the road. He'll talk to you about kid names and apartment locations.***
locations. He isn't afraid to discuss the topic of marriage, joint finances, or the challenges that come with forging a long-lasting partnership. His willingness to delve into these conversations showcases not only his commitment but also his desire to build a future together that's filled with shared goals and dreams. While discussing next weekend's dinner plans is sweet, it's those deep, future-focused discussions that truly signify how serious he is about you and the life you both may share together.
8. He Tells You about Big Decisions He Has to Make Vs He Consults You with Big Decisions He Has to Make
A good boyfriend will tell you about the things that are going on in his life but a serious boyfriend will talk to you about the big things. He will allow you to give your opinion so that you two can make an informed decision together.9. You Sleep over at His Place a Lot Vs He Has Space for Your Things at His Place
Spending days or weeks on end together at a boyfriend's place is a great thing. But if he's setting aside a drawer or other space in his home for you to keep your items, he's a keeper.***
clear sign of his commitment. It's his way of saying you're a part of his life, not just a guest. This gesture shows he’s thinking about convenience for you and sees the value in integrating your lives. Gradually, your toothbrush might find a permanent spot next to his, indicating a subtle, yet significant step towards a more serious relationship. The transition from temporary visitor to having a personal nook in his world is a real indicator that he’s not just into you; he’s investing in a future that includes both of you.
10. He's There for All the Good Times Vs He's There for All the Bad Times
When you're together, it's absolutely amazing. He's seen you during all of your fantastic moments. But if he's there for you when times are tough, he's definitely serious boyfriend material.***
material. A man who stands by you when you're at your worst—when you're sick, when you're facing personal challenges, or when you're just having a terrible day—is someone who's committed to you for the long haul. It's easy to join in on the fun and celebrations, but it takes a special kind of dedication to be a shoulder to cry on and a rock to rely on when the going gets tough. If your guy is there through thick and thin, then he's not just a boyfriend; he's a partner.
11. He Knows Your Interests Vs He Participates in Your Interests
He knows that you love photography, pop music, and watching old films, but a serious boyfriend initiates doing these activities with you. He wants to experience things that make you smile.12. You Calls You Beautiful Vs He Makes You Feel Beautiful
Actions speak louder than words. While we all love to be called beautiful, it is also the way in which a guy makes us feel that can determine whether he's a serious boyfriend or not.13. He's Met Your Family Vs He Keeps in Contact and Makes an Effort with Your Family
He's met your family over holidays or big events, but a serious relationship means he keeps in regular contact with your family members and shows a genuine interest in your family.***
Meeting your family is a big step, but a serious boyfriend takes it further by weaving himself into the fabric of your family life. He’s not just a guest at Thanksgiving; he’s sending your mom birthday texts, remembering to check in with your dad about his fishing trip, or offering to help your sibling with their move. This type of consideration goes beyond politeness—it’s about forming lasting bonds and showing that he values not just you, but your loved ones too, understanding that deep relationships are built on these shared connections and day-to-day interactions.
14. He Always Makes You Feel Better Vs He Makes You Better
When you're having a bad day, he's there to cheer you up. But if he encourages you to be a better version of yourself and to achieve your goals, he's making you a better person.15. He Simply Listens when You're Being Irrational Vs He Calls You out when You're Being Irrational
A serious boyfriend is a great listener but also has the ability to tell you things openly and honestly. If you're being irrational - he should be able to tell you.Your boyfriend could always turn into your serious boyfriend, so you shouldn't worry if he doesn't currently do everything on this list. You have plenty of time to grow as a couple. After reading this, do you think you have a boyfriend or a serious boyfriend?
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