Q: I am in my early 20’s and I have been dating this guy for about 7 months. He just told me he likes me but he’s not into having an exclusive relationship. What should I do?

A: Is his liking you but not wanting exclusivity enough for you? Some people are accepting of that, however, you run the risk of being disappointed if you are waiting to go out with him and he is with someone else. Respect the fact that he was honest with you. Some guys simply just ghost you. I know that stings when you want a monogamous relationship. Now decide if you are better simply not dating him? Can you just be friends with no expectations? If this doesn’t feel good to you, you can give yourself permission to leave and move on. No matter what you decide, if you do split ways, it still can be hurtful and disappointing. What is important for you is to take time for yourself and reflect on this issue and practice extreme self-care. Put yourself back out in the dating world when you are ready.

You most deserve to have someone who is totally into you. He should like who he is when he’s with you and treat you with honor and respect. Most of all, you want to be your best self and when you feel this way, you will attract someone who is genuinely interested in pursuing YOU! When you love yourself first and foremost, you will exude this and it is attractive to someone else. They will pick up on your energy.

Put yourself in situations that you enjoy and you will naturally meet others who have similar interests and want to get to know you. You may want to continue to see this person you have been dating, however, if your needs are an exclusive relationship I would caution you not to wait around for you don’t know if he will ever be ready.