The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it the amusingly named dating trend known as ‘snowmanning’.
Amidst the array of dating trends currently surfacing, there’s one that perfectly aligns with the festive period.
If you’ve been tucked away in seclusion, this viral trend refers to diving headfirst into a passionate relationship during the holiday season.
However, just as the winter chill dissipates, so does the attraction. As Tinder’s relationship expert Devyn Simone describes it, ‘snowmanning’ combines elements of love-bombing and ghosting, with a ‘seasonal expiration date’.
What advice does Simone offer to daters during the lead-up to Christmas regarding this trend?
Essentially, don’t stress over minor details. If your partner disappears come February, they weren’t truly deserving of your time.
“We know cuffing season is real,” noted the expert. “In fact, Tinder data reveals conversations were 18 percent longer during cuffing season last year compared to the spring. As nights grow darker and colder, there’s a natural desire to find someone to cozy up with.”
“Parties, holiday gatherings, and probing questions about bringing a plus-one can create pressure, leading people to jump into relationships that aren’t quite right.”
Simone continued with advice: “What I want singles to remember is this: before you get caught up in spending the long winter nights with someone, take a moment for self-reflection.”
“What do you truly want from a new connection? Tinder’s Year in Swipe indicates that 56 percent of singles value honest conversations the most, and 60 percent desire clearer communication about intentions.”
“Being upfront about your expectations sets the tone early and helps avoid mismatched expectations.”
If you’ve experienced ‘snowmanning’, understand that it’s not a reflection of anything you did wrong.
“When someone goes all in quickly and exits just as fast, it reflects more on their readiness for a relationship than on your worth,” the expert added.
“Consider it a blessing. They’re no longer occupying space in your life when they weren’t deserving of it. And you’re not alone – 31 percent of singles say past relationships have clarified what they truly seek next.”
Dr. Crystal Wylie previously cautioned that ‘snowmanning’ can have repercussions beyond emotional harm.
Since these brief flings often conclude without exchanging contact details, individuals exposed to STIs can’t inform their former partners.
“This lack of communication can perpetuate a chain of transmission,” Wylie pointed out.
“It’s essential to practice safe sex and undergo regular testing, especially during the heightened social activity of December.”