How To Take A Relationship To The Next Level

You’ve passed the awkward small talk. You know their favourite snacks, their worst jokes and maybe even their middle name. Now you’re wondering: Is it time to level up… or just keep vibing?

Taking a relationship to the next stage – whether that’s exclusivity, meeting families or planning a future together – doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a mix of clarity, courage and small daily choices.

Here’s how to move things forward in a healthy, intentional way.

1. Decide what “next level” means for you

Before you talk to them, get honest with yourself:

• Do you want to be exclusive?

• Do you want to move from chatting to in-person dates more often?

• Are you thinking about meeting friends/family?

• Or is it about emotional depth – sharing more of your real life, not just highlight reels?

Write it down if it helps:

“Next level for me = ________.”

Clarity makes the conversation less scary and more specific.

2. Check if the foundation is stable

A higher level will only expose cracks faster. Ask yourself:

• Do I feel safe sharing my feelings?

• Do they respect my boundaries and time?

• Can we disagree without it turning toxic?

• Are we both putting effort into communication?

If the basics aren’t there yet, the “next level” step might actually be working on the foundation, not adding more pressure.

3. Communicate your intentions (no games)

Mixed signals create confusion. Adults communicate.

You don’t have to give a TED Talk – just be honest and calm. For example:

“I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you. I’d like us to be intentional and date each other exclusively. How do you feel about that?”

or

“I’d love for us to spend more real-life time together, not just texting. Can we plan a regular date night?”

Give them space to respond honestly – your goal is clarity, not forcing an answer you want to hear.

4. Deepen emotional intimacy, not just physical

Next level isn’t only about moving closer physically. It’s also:

• Talking about fears, dreams and money habits

• Sharing your faith or values more honestly

• Letting them see your “real life” – not just glam moments on Instagram

• Being open about mental health, stress and triggers

Ask deeper questions:

• “What does commitment look like to you?”

• “What did you learn about relationships from your parents or guardians?”

• “What does a healthy marriage/partnership mean in your mind?”

Emotional intimacy is what makes physical intimacy meaningful and safe, not confusing.

5. Bring them into more of your world

If it feels right and safe, slowly integrate your lives:

• Introduce them to a trusted friend or two

• Invite them to a low-pressure group hangout

• Share parts of your routine (gym, church, market runs, game nights)

Watch how they treat your people – and how your people feel about them. Sometimes friends and family notice red flags we’re too in-love to see.

6. Set shared expectations & boundaries

As things get more serious, it’s important to define:

• What does exclusivity mean for us?

• How often do we communicate (realistic for both)?

• What are our boundaries around sex, sleepovers, travel, money?

• How do we handle conflict and cool-off time?

This doesn’t kill romance – it protects it. Clear expectations reduce unnecessary drama.

7. Keep dating each other on purpose

Leveling up doesn’t mean comfort mode forever. It means:

• Planning dates (not just “you dey?” at 10 p.m.)

• Sending thoughtful messages and checking in on their day

• Celebrating wins together – promotions, graduations, small victories

• Learning each other’s love languages and actually using them

Consistency is what turns a crush into a partnership.

8. Listen to the pace of the relationship

Good relationships grow – but not always at the same speed.

If your partner is slower:

• Ask what they need to feel safe (time, reassurance, more conversation)

• Decide if their pace is something you can genuinely respect

If you’re the one feeling rushed:

• You can say: “I like you a lot, but I need us to slow down a bit so I don’t feel overwhelmed.”

A relationship that’s truly ready for the next level can survive honest pacing conversations.

9. Keep your individuality

Taking things to the next stage doesn’t mean disappearing into “we”.

• Keep your friendships, hobbies and goals

• Encourage them to maintain theirs

• Support each other’s growth instead of clinging out of fear

Two whole people make one strong relationship.

10. Trust your peace

Finally, pay attention to how your body and spirit feel when you think about committing more deeply:

• Excited + a little nervous = normal

• Constantly anxious, heavy or confused = pause

Sometimes the urge to “move forward” comes from pressure (age, culture, family) instead of genuine readiness. The right next step should bring more peace than panic.

The next level is built, not wished for

Taking a relationship to the next stage isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about clear conversations, consistent actions and mutual effort.

If both of you are willing to show up honestly, respect each other’s boundaries and keep choosing each other daily, that’s already a powerful next level. 💜