To hook up or to not hook up. That’s the real question isn’t it? We live in a world where hook up culture is the norm. Where casual sex isn’t only accepted, its expected. Most people forgo the whole idea of relationships because they feel that college life is all about the casual. And it can be.
Casual sex is great. If you have the capability to keep it casual. This works for some people. People who prefer to keep things physical for whatever reason. They could be getting over a bad relationship, they don’t like commitment, or they are just really horny and don’t care about the other stuff. There is nothing wrong with expressing your sexual freedom casually. Embrace it if that’s how you feel. We live in a country where this is acceptable. Where we can be sexually promiscuous without fear of persecution from the government.
This doesn’t mean that hooking up has to be your thing. It’s not for some people. “Catching feelings” is completely normal. It just means that the casual thing might not be right for you. This doesn’t just mean waiting for a relationship but waiting for the right time in the relationship. Jumping into a sexual encounter before both partners have figured all the other bits and pieces out first can be a problem. You might realize you’re more different than you thought or you just need a little time to figure stuff out.
Relationship sex is amazing if it’s done right. This means communication. Being up front with each other about what you like, what your partner likes, what the both of you are comfortable with. Keep an open mind to trying new things, but if something freaks you out to the point where you’re beyond uncomfortable, say something. Sex is about enjoyment and if one of you or both of you isn’t enjoying it, what’s the point?
Every person has their own idea of the “right” kind of sex. Relationship, hook-up, friends-with-benefits, it all depends on what’s right for YOU! You have the right to your own sexual independence. With that independence comes the responsibility of respecting yourself and your partner(s). If you are the hook up type, own it. Same goes for relationship types. It is your life. Don’t let anyone ‘help’ you decide what’s right for you cause chances are they don’t know you as well as you know yourself.
So whatever your style, one night stand or one year relationship, you do you.