What Comes First: Friendship Or Romance?

Is it really necessary to build a solid foundation of friendship when you already have a gut feeling that the person you just met might be “the one”?

This is a question I sometimes get from clients seeking a love or relationship reading. They want to know whether they should focus on building a friendship first if they feel that their relationship has the potential to lead to a long-term commitment or marriage.

The answer can vary depending on the people involved and the unique dynamics of their relationship.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, building a friendship can provide a stable foundation for the deeper layers of a romantic relationship. Friendship helps create a space where mutual respect, understanding, and shared values can flourish – qualities that are crucial to a lasting partnership.

I find many folks jump into a relationship with both feet, convinced they’ve found their true soulmate, only to be disappointed later.

Developing a strong friendship with your partner can be incredibly beneficial. It allows you to get to know each other on a deeper level without the pressure or distractions that often come with romantic and physical intimacy. In a friendship, you’re more likely to feel comfortable being your authentic self. This authenticity can lead to a stronger emotional connection, which can then become the foundation for a more serious romantic connection.

I find many folks jump into a relationship with both feet, convinced they’ve found their true soulmate, only to be disappointed later. However, I’ve also observed through my psychic readings that the dynamics of love and relationships are not always so straightforward.

In the symphony of life, the sweetest notes are played when best friends become soulmates ~ Nikki Rowe

There are situations where two people can jump right into the romantic or physical aspects of their relationship and still develop a meaningful, lasting partnership. This often happens when there is a strong karmic connection or a soul bond that transcends the usual stages of relationship development. In these cases, the relationship can progress without the initial phase of friendship. However, if not guided with care and wisdom toward growth and healing, these soul contract connections can also become very challenging.

Trust Your Intuition

Every love connection and partnership is unique, and there are no universal rules for how relationships should develop. While building a friendship can be a very helpful strategy in many cases, it’s also important to listen to your intuition.

Does jumping right into a romantic relationship feel right to you? Will it prevent you from getting to know the other person on a deeper level later? How might it affect you emotionally and spiritually?

Your intuition is a powerful guide. If you feel that focusing on friendship first will lead to a more fulfilling relationship, then that may be the best path for you. On the other hand, if you feel that an immediate romantic connection won’t hinder your deeper emotional or spiritual growth, then there’s no reason to hold back.

If you’re torn between keeping things at the friendship level and moving forward romantically, take some time to reflect. Spend time in solitude and connect with your higher self, spirit and the divine. When you quiet your mind and listen to this inner guidance, you’ll often find the answers you’re looking for.

What’s important is that you make this decision consciously and with a clear understanding of your own needs and boundaries.

When you find your best friend in your life partner, every day becomes a celebration of love and friendship ~ Ritu Ghatourey

Patience And Timing

One of the most difficult aspects of relationships is patience. Sometimes the right thing to do is to wait and let the relationship develop naturally. This can be difficult, especially when you feel a strong connection and want to move forward quickly. However, patience can often lead to a more rewarding and lasting partnership. Trust that if this person is truly meant to be a part of your life, the timing will work out as it should.

It’s also worth remembering that relationships are dynamic and can evolve over time. A friendship can naturally blossom into a romance, and a romantic relationship can deepen into a deep friendship. The key is to remain open to the journey and allow the relationship to unfold at its own pace.