Finding a real relationship in college seems to be an impossible feat. Most people are too caught up in cramming for the next big test or pregaming for the next party, leaving no time to focus on finding a significant other. However, today’s hook-up culture still seems to be at an all-time high. Casual hook-ups at parties are deemed socially acceptable, and “almost-relationships” without commitment tend to be the norm. But is this really what we want?
Even though being in a world of casual hook-ups may be appealing to some, it has certainly tarnished the fairytale characteristics of love that we’ve all dreamt about at some point in our lives. What happened to falling in love, or even just the standard dinner and a movie date?
Instead, we are stuck with the latest trend of f*ckboys, which Urban Dictionary defines as, “A manipulating dick who does whatever it takes to benefit him, regardless of who he screws over. They will screw over anyone and everyone as long they get what they want.”
Is this really the type of person we want to be spending time with? Despite the obvious frustrations that come along with dating (if that’s even the right word for it) a f*ckboy, it’s still way too easy to find yourself swept up in his dreamy smile and undeniable charm. Here are a few great ways to avoid dealing with this type of person:
Focus on your own happiness.
If pursuing someone who doesn’t have the same aspirations as you causes you any amount of pain, do not hesitate to break things off. Nobody is worth risking your happiness, even for a temporary high of being with someone you care about.
Make your intentions clear from the beginning.
Avoiding the issue of dealing with unclear feelings will be the best way of protecting yourself when it comes to avoiding a f*ckboy relationship. If your intentions do not match the other person’s, it is clear that you two will not be a match for each other.
Confidence is key.
The biggest obstacle when dealing with someone who is used to manipulating a situation is having the courage to point out the obvious holes in their story. The next time a situation isn’t adding up, don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself and demand the treatment you deserve.
Don’t settle for anybody or anything.
Never let anybody tell you your standards are too high, or that you’re expecting too much. In reality, that person just can’t measure up to what you deserve. You will be doing yourself a favor if you avoid wasting time on someone who isn’t worth your time, especially if he falls into the f*ckboy category.
With the ever-present hook-up culture telling us it’s okay to casually date or hook-up with someone we don’t have feelings for, it’s important to remember that it’s also okay for us to want more. We may not be ready to completely settle down just yet, but that doesn’t mean we deserve to be treated poorly either. Hold your head high and don’t waste your time on anyone who’s caught a case of f*ckboy syndrome!