8 Clever Tricks to Get Yourself Out of a Situationship

Sometimes, the best trick is no trick at all. Sit down with your almost-partner and have an honest conversation about where you stand.

I was terrified to do this, but when I finally did, it was like a weight lifted. Turns out, we were both afraid of ruining what we had. Once we talked, we realized we wanted the same thing – a real relationship.

Give yourself a timeframe to see progress. Maybe it's two months, maybe it's six. If by that date things haven't changed, it's time to move on.

I set a three-month deadline for myself. It gave me the push I needed to either make things official or walk away. Spoiler alert: I walked away, and it was the best decision I could've made.

Nothing clarifies feelings quite like seeing the person you like with someone else. Start dating other people and see how your situationship partner reacts.

When I updated my dating profile and started going out with other people, my situationship partner suddenly got very interested in defining our relationship. Funny how that works, huh?

If you've decided this situationship isn't for you, start gradually reducing contact. Take longer to respond to texts, be less available for hangouts.

I used this when I realized my situationship was going nowhere. It was less awkward than a big confrontation, and it gave us both time to adjust to the change.

Throw yourself into personal goals. Hit the gym, take a class, learn a new skill. It'll boost your confidence and might make your situationship partner see you in a new light.

I started taking guitar lessons and suddenly, I was too busy for late-night "you up?" texts. Not only did I learn a new skill, but I also realized I deserved someone who valued my time.

Casually mention going on a date or getting attention from someone else. Their reaction can tell you a lot about how they really feel.

When I mentioned a cute barista flirting with me, my situationship partner's face said it all. We had the "what are we" talk that very night.

If you always hang out at home watching Netflix, suggest going out on real dates instead. Changing the pattern can help shift the dynamic.

Start suggesting actual date activities – dinners out, concerts, even a weekend trip. It will quickly become clear whether you are moving towards a real relationship or just comfortable in our routine.

If all else fails, it's time for the ultimatum. Let them know you want a real relationship, and if they can't commit, you're out.

This was scary, but it worked. I laid it all out – I wanted a real relationship, with labels and everything. It was nerve-wracking, but it finally gave me the clarity I needed.

Remember, you deserve someone who's excited to be with you – no games, no confusion. Whether these tricks lead to a real relationship or help you move on, you're one step closer to the love you deserve. You've got this!