Summer fling survival
Don't jump into bed and get jiggy just because the sun's gone to your head. Consider what you're getting yourself into right here.
Opportunity knocks
When the temperature rises, people tend to strip down, get out and about, or simply head off on holiday. Whatever the case, the chances of a romantic fling are higher during the summer months than any other time of the year.
On paper, it seems the conditions are just right for a little sun-kissed slap 'n' tickle. In reality, it's worth stepping back into the shade first in order to work out if you can really handle the heat.
Up-front or affair?
If you're single, a summer fling can be guilt-free fun. The long, balmy evenings can provide the perfect backdrop, especially if you're on a break, with sea and sand thrown into the mix. But what if you're on vacation from a home-grown relationship? If your other half is out of sight and even out of mind, the temptation could be too much to resist.
- If you're thinking of playing away, consider the impact on your relationship back home. Can you live with the guilt, and what does it say about your commitment?
- If you're single and up for a fling, be clear about your intentions from the start. As long as you're both aware that this is just an opportunity to make the most of the summer, you'll be keeping the chance of regret to a minimum.
Are you for real?
If you're on holiday, away from your usual crowd, it's easy to be whoever you want. With nobody around to set the record straight, you can invent a while new background, if it suits. The downside only kicks in if the summer fling outlasts the season.
- Quite simply, if you're going to fib to make yourself look good, be clear in your mind that this romance isn't going to return home with you - and bite you on the bum.
- Rather than outright lies, just consider being selective about yourself. This way, you're not lying. If this fling is just a bit of fun, then keep it that way. Instead of dwelling on your past, just make the most of your time together.
From summer fling to autumn angst?
At some point, no matter how hot this romance turns out to be, things are going to change. If you're seeing someone close to home, those lazy, hazy days are shortly going to darken and demand some warmer clothes. That doesn't have to spell the end of the romance, of course, but it could mark the close of the honeymoon period. For those who have enjoyed a holiday fling on faraway shores, however, there's no escaping your return date - and what that means for your relationship.
- Be realistic. If you live at opposite ends of the country, chances are you're not going to see each other every day on your return.
- If you're determined, be sure to review the situation regularly. Long distance romances don't often travel well, after all. It requires a great deal of sacrifice, in terms of travel time and also travel costs.
- Should things fail to work out, don't let it end in blame and recrimination. Instead, look back on the fact that you made the most of your summer, and recognise that sometimes romances come and go like the seasons.
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