When someone tells about their love story in movies or real life, it is usually love at first sight. They saw each other fall madly in love and married, or I saw her or him, and I heard violins playing. It was then I knew he/she was the one. If listening to or watching such stories makes you think this can’t be you ever, you might be a demiromantic. Does this make you wonder what that is and whether you are the only one who thinks this way? Well, you are not alone.
Demiromantic people are those who have romantic feelings for someone only after there is a solid emotional connection. Someone who is demiromantic doesn’t instantly feel romantic toward a person. They first form a strong bond either as a friend or sexually, and only then can they have romantic feelings.
So, this is a summary of what demi-romanticism is. In this post, we will discuss demi-romanticism in detail, its signs, its differences from demisexuals, and how it affects relationships.
What is demiromanticism?
Every one of us experiences romantic feelings differently. Some can feel romantically attracted to someone in their first meetings, while others won’t. For a demiromantic person developing, a romantic connection can only develop when there is a strong emotional bond. They don’t feel romantically attracted to a person if there is no emotional connection.
In simple words, demi-romanticism is having romantic feelings towards someone when there is an emotional and mental connection with the individual. It is a person’s romantic identity and is different from sexual orientation.
If you think this describes you, your partner, or someone you know, you must keep reading to learn more.
How can I know if I am demiromantic?
Sadly, no guidelines can help you identify whether you are demiromantic. Just like sexual orientation and gender identity, you need to figure out whether the term resonates with you.
Remember, you don’t need to label yourself if you don’t want to. You are the best version of yourself.
However, when it comes to the demiromantic, things get tricky as romance is hyped in popular culture, and someone who is demiromantic might feel confused about their needs and desires. Also, sometimes demiromantics doubt the value of their relationship and worry that their partner won’t like or admire them as they aren’t romantic enough. Fortunately, this is where self-exploration and communication play a vital role.
That said if you are confused about your romantic identity and want to figure out what it is. Here are a few signs of a demiromantic person.
Signs you are a Demiromantic
You feel sexual attraction, but the romantic feeling is either not there or there is confusion.
You romantically fall for close friends or those with whom you have an emotional or mental connection.
You find falling in love difficult.
Unlike your friends, you feel left out as you don’t have too many crushes.
For you falling for strangers or having a crush on someone doesn’t make sense.
You find it challenging to grow closer to people.
If you feel sexually attracted to someone or want to date someone, you might not be interested in doing romantic things. Instead, you will like to hang out casually.
Romantic feelings often confuse you, and you don’t feel anything on first dates.
Sexual attraction is easy compared to romantic attraction.
These signs mentioned above may help you determine if you’re demiromantic. However, remember some of these signs might overlap with non-demiromantic individuals. Therefore, you need to figure out if you’re demiromantic or not.
Compared to non-demiromantic, demiromantic are more aware and can differentiate between romantic and physical attraction.
Demiromanticism Myths
Demiromantic doesn’t mean an individual doesn’t like physical touch and affection. They enjoy cuddling, hugging, and getting physically intimate even when they aren’t romantically interested.
Demiromantic people might not have a crush on someone the typical way, but they can feel sexual attraction.
Demiromantics can have a platonic crush or, after several years of friendship, can have a crush on their friends.
Some demiromantics take time to trust others. It is not because they don’t feel romantic attraction or are cold-hearted.
What’s the difference between demiromantic and demisexual
As people still interconnect romantic attractions and sexual identity, they fail to understand that demi-romanticism and demisexuality are different. A demiromantic person cannot develop romantic attraction without emotional and mental bonds but can be sexually attracted.
While a demisexual can only feel sexual attraction towards those with whom there is an emotional connection but can be romantically attracted without a solid connection. A person can be technically demiromantic and demisexual at once.
Demiromantic describes romantic preferences, while demisexual describes sexual preferences.
Dating a Demiromantic – What does it mean?
Dating a demiromantic means building an emotional connection first, followed by a romantic relationship. Before getting into a relationship, many demiromantic individuals become friends for months or years, making it challenging to understand whether they can have a romantic connection.
Also, sometimes the hesitancy demiromantic people have before getting into romantic relationships might make the other person look at them as cold or distant. But that is not the case. Just because demiromantic cannot experience romantic attraction doesn’t mean they cannot love and have an emotional connection.
They need time first to build connections and then get romantically involved. Understanding this concept can be difficult for those who are not demiromantic and believe in things like love at first sight. These ideas of love are true for many but not for demiromantic people.
If you are demiromantic or are interested in someone who is demiromantic, you need to wipe the slate clean and forget what the movies say about love. This will help you understand your identity and explain to others what they can expect from you.
Embrace your way of doing things because there are benefits to forming a friendship before jumping into a relationship. Getting to know someone before becoming romantic may be a good idea for anyone, whether they’re demiromantic or not.
How to handle a relationship with a demiromantic person?
Demiromantics pay attention to emotional connection and compatibility. If you or your partner is demiromantic, understanding their feelings and how you can get closer to them will matter. This can be little things like sharing your thoughts or doing things with them that they care about.
However, if you are not a demiromantic but your partner is, don’t make fun of them as they want to be emotionally close. Just because a person cannot get romantically attracted in a meeting or two doesn’t mean they can’t have long-lasting relationships.
Support Demiromantics They Are Like Us
If you find yourself curious about your or your partner’s identity and feel comfortable discussing it, don’t hesitate to talk. You can share your feelings and ask your partner to share them. Also, tell what it feels like and how you prefer establishing a connection.
Also, never rely on what others say, do your research, and identify yourself. We appreciate you reading this post, as not all have the courage. Above all, when someone shares their identity with you, accept it without hesitation. Do not judge or label someone. You are not someone to tell others how they should feel or act. Respect others as you respect yourself.
Each of us deserves the freedom and opportunity to explore different gender, romantic and sexual identities. This exploration allows us to discover where we feel at home and most authentic.
The post Demiromantic What It Means – 9 Signs You Might Be Demiromantic appeared first on Calm Sage – Your Guide to Mental and Emotional Well-being.