Dating... I think I need to read the Rule Book!

Not in the 20th century, let alone the 21st! As do quite a few women.

Some people's practices have failed to keep pace.

His response... I am sharing because I think it might help others out there who are struggling with trying to define the path. I think he is a very wise person, and his response was spot on, IMO.
"I think the building of trust and a relationship takes a very unique path between two individuals that may not be replicated by anyone else. So, I don't have any guidance or advice to you, only to say that we seem to be on a very good path together and we should just let that develop on its natural course."

The way I read his statement is that relationships take time to develop where two people grow closer together over time. Agreeing to be exclusive means you are not dating other people but it does not make a "relationship". A relationship develops more organically over time. So the way I read it, is that he is willing or wants to dedicate the time and energy necessary to develop a relationship. While you seem to be clinging to titles - are we dating, are we bf/gf, are we exclusive, etc. Those titles do not create a relationship by themselves. A relationship is not like instant coffee where you just add water and you are done.

Instead of worrying about titles and over analyzing every single word that comes out of his mouth, maybe you should stop and think about how is your actual relationship? Is he happy? Are you? Do you both meet each others needs? Is your connection growing or has it stopped?

The flip side of the coin is that he said that several times as a heads up to you that he is not happy and perhaps does not feel the connection or that things between you are actually progressing to a bonding relationship beyond just titles.

Bottom line is that it's all just a speculation. Only he knows what he really meant by it. If you want to know, you can ask him to clarify.

His response... I am sharing because I think it might help others out there who are struggling with trying to define the path. I think he is a very wise person, and his response was spot on, IMO.
"I think the building of trust and a relationship takes a very unique path between two individuals that may not be replicated by anyone else. So, I don't have any guidance or advice to you, only to say that we seem to be on a very good path together and we should just let that develop on its natural course."

You're right, that's very wise. You're in a good place.

Ok, need a little help here... previously, I always thought dating went from:1) 1st/2nd date2) exploratory (seeing if you want to become exclusive, but still able to date other people)3) exclusive (in a relationship, bf/gf)4) ltr (leading to marriage or whatever definition you have)But, I think I may have gotten this wrong and missed a step between 3 & 4. Of course, this doesn't apply to every one in every situation. I'm talking about the "typical" way it happens, with no timelines as that completely depends on the situation. so, I'm dating someone and kinda thought we were in a relationship. agreed to be exclusive, which is great!! he mentioned to me last night, as we were talking about life's goals, etc. that his short term goal is to develop a relationship! WTHeck?Am I missing some very important ingredient that I should be aware of? Now, I know he is totally into me, and we talk daily, see each other between 2-4 times per week. But, I don't get the difference.I am planning to ask him tonight when I see him, but wanted to get the wise advice from the guys (and ladies) of this board before I approach the topic with him. Maybe I'm just looking at it wrong... wouldn't be the first time!

His response... I am sharing because I think it might help others out there who are struggling with trying to define the path. I think he is a very wise person, and his response was spot on, IMO.
"I think the building of trust and a relationship takes a very unique path between two individuals that may not be replicated by anyone else. So, I don't have any guidance or advice to you, only to say that we seem to be on a very good path together and we should just let that develop on its natural course."

youre flacking kidding me? that sounds like a line of boo hockey to me! lololol

There is someone out there for everyone... different personalities attract different people. First instance, I put responsiveness and communications above looks. Some people would cringe. You just have to know your own priorities and go after those.

What this guy has to offer to me, is very much aligned to what I am looking for in a man and relationship. So what's boo hockey to you... are words of kindness and thoughtfullness that I'll eat it up and enjoy it any day of the week !