general | March 30, 2026

Yes, The 'Three Month Rule' In Dating Is A Thing. Here's How To Survive Past It

We all tend to get excited about a new flame. On a first date, it's easy to imagine that we'll look back at this evening ten years from now and remember when we met. In reality, though, we know that most first dates won't still be around a decade from now. They may not even be here in three months.

According to the 'three month rule,' the three month mark is pretty important. Early in romance, we're in the "honeymoon phase." We're excited about our new partner, and at the same time, we don't know them very well. Three months in, you have a better idea of who you're dating. Professional matchmaker, Sameera Sullivan, broke this down for Her Campus, saying, "After three months of dating, you and your partner have gotten to know each other better. As a result, you're more inclined to lower your guard, express your emotions, and be candid about important issues." 

While at this point, you or your partner may start to feel like you're losing the spark, in reality, you're likely just realizing that the time has come to decide to commit to each other or move on. According to dating coach Anna Morgenstern, "The three month-mark in a relationship is usually when you either take the relationship to the next level and become more serious, or you decide that love isn't going to grow and you break ties."