Flirting,a game we can both play.

FLIRTING, A GAME WE CAN BOTH PLAY.

Flirting is a behaviour. It is an action which suggests one is sexually attracted to the opposite sex. Nowadays flirting is made so easy with the invent of social media. It all goes down in the DM's or PM's as the case may be. Social media gives one the freedom to be what they want to be including act single and flirt around. While flirting may be fun to some people, it is actually harmful when you are in a serious relationship. If you are invested in your partner, your eyes shouldn't wander. Every relationship has boundaries. When your partner starts feeling like you are no longer respecting the boundaries with how you are behaving with another man or woman, it has become harmful and it is wise you stop.

Some argue that flirting makes them feel good. They believe that flirting keeps them sexually active and makes them feel more attractive. They also argue that it helps them become a better flirt and a better tease hence a better conversationalist. Yes flirting also boosts one's confidence but to what end?

There are basically three types of flirting

1. 
   

2. Harmless flirting: This involves innocent conversations, genuine tease and laughter, side hugs, buying of drinks and basically non-sexual touches.

3. 
   

4. Touchy Flirtation: this is when it goes beyond the harmless stage to actual sexual touches. Hands on the thighs, full frontal hugs, brushing of the hair, nibbling of the ear lope etc.

5. 
   

6. Talking dirty: here the flirting is already on a very slippery slope. Sexual compliments comes in leading to sexting and then maybe video sex and what have you.

7. 
   

Flirting could be unintentional and begins innocently but progresses blurring the thin line between harmless and inappropriate behaviour.

When does flirting become cheating?

Cheating isnt always about touching, kissing, or having sex with someone other than your partner.

1. Having a dating profile on platforms like Tinder whether you are just there to window-shop or chatting up people is cheating because you are in a virtual space aimed at hooking up and dating. What are your intentions? Would you feel comfortable knowing your partner is in one of those dating platform?

   
   

2. The moment you start loosing your head over an online friend, counting the hours to chatting with him/her, daydreaming and reminiscing and looking forward to playful flirtation is a clear sign that you are cheating. Your head is no longer with your partner.

3. When you see the needs to keep this person a secret and start deleting conversations because you are guilt ridden that you sharing emotions and doing stuff which when seen by your partner might put a strain on your relationship then you are cheating. I don't even want to talk about having to password your phone.

   
   4 .Ask yourself these questions when next you are flirting:-
   

   Do I need to keep this a secret?

   
   

4. Do I think about my flirtatious friend a lot?

   
   

   Would I rather discuss my emotional issue with him than with my partner?

5. 
   

   How will I feel if I find out my partner is doing this same thing I am doing?

6. 
   As much as flirting may be a form of cheating, does it mean that being in a relationship means banning all happy interactions with the opposite sex?

I would love to read your opinions.