Have you ever heard someone say,

"I cannot date my friend, I do not want to ruin the friendship."

Have you ever said this? Perhaps this is one of the main reasons the quality of romantic relationships are compromised or dissolve before ever having an opportunity to thrive because people really do not know each other.

In essence they are dating strangers.

Think about the friendships in your life. How were they formed? More than likely, they organically developed over time. You did not meet someone, slap the label 'friend' on him/her and then tried to fast track the friendship to best friend status. However, this is the approach some people take towards romantic spaces. By allowing a friendship to organically grow, both parties have the time and opportunity to establish a rapport, develop trust (which cannot be fast tracked), & learn more about each other.

Healthy foundations are laid through this process and both parties are able to make a conscious decision as to the next step. You may discover you are not compatible romantically but amazing as platonic friends or you may discover you two are the loves of each other's lives. A win-win outcome for all.

Slow Down.
Be Patient.
Trust.
Cultivate.

-Misha N. Granado