7 Millennials Try to Define What “Talking” Means in the Dating World

single woman texting

It was a much simpler time when our parents were looking for love. Before the advent of online dating, people actually went on first dates like it was a totally normal thing. Now, dating apps (even the serious ones) have complicated our love lives, and have given way to a whole new relationship phase: “talking,” where members of the potential relationship are in some sort of communication with each other. More often than not, most of the symbolic talking occurs over texting or social media. It’s not dating, and it’s not platonic either. It’s talking, and seven millennials attempted to define what exactly that means.

DATING

If I’m talking to someone, I’m exclusive with them. To me, talking is what dating should be — you go get ice cream or coffee and get to know someone.” – Adam D.

Talking is getting to know someone with the intention of potentially dating them. That’s all there is to it.” – Holly B.

“I have a pretty good sense of whether I’m talking to someone as a friend or something more than that. ‘Talking’ in the romantic sense means that there are feelings involved and you’re getting to know each other to see where it goes. You talk consistently and probably have established ‘dibs’ on that person.” – Maddie L.

SOMETHING IN BETWEEN

“Talking is when you could see it becoming a relationship but also think it could fall apart at any minute. You wouldn’t DARE ask, ‘what are we?’ because both people are trying to act casual.” – Dani G.

“To me, talking means that you both are hooking up with each other. In those situations, I’m normally not talking to anyone else, but I’m not exactly at the point in the relationship where I feel okay to ask if they’re talking to anyone else or not. It’s this weird, make-or-break limbo.” – Rachel K.

“When you’re talking, you’re more than friends and less than a couple. You don’t want to be labeled. It could be serious; it could be just a fling.” – Drew H.

It’s a step away from dating. Having stated that mutual interest, you’re going on dates and texting throughout the day. It’s up in the air from there.” – Redish R.

Clearly, the jury is still out on what “talking" means in the dating world. Social media and dating apps have changed the nature of person-to-person communication. There isn't much room for confusion when you're talking to someone IRL, but with texting, swiping and in-app chatting, interpretation (or misinterpretation) of someone's words can be as varied as an emoji keyboard. Keep that in mind the next time you send a winky face to someone.

What does "talking" mean to you? Let us know @BritandCo.

Image: Shutterstock

This article has been updated from a previous post.

It might be cuffing season, but for some celeb couples, it's breakup season. In the midst of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck settling their divorce, TMZ reports that Kaia Gerber & Austin Butler have called it quits after dating for 3 years. The Palm Royale and Dune 2 stars were first linked at the end of 2021 when they were spotted headed to a yoga class together. Well, it appears that in 2025, they'll be doing their sun salutations on their own.

Here's everything we know about Austin Butler and Kaia Gerber's break up.

Despite the breakup (which a source says came at the end of 2024), TMZ reports that Kaia Gerber & Austin Butler are on good terms, and that the relationship came to a natural end. The split also explains why Austin didn't join Kaia on her family New Year trip to Cabo San Lucas, despite the fact mom Cindy Crawford, dad Rande Gerber, brother Presley Gerber, and his girlfriend Isabella Jones were all there.

At the start of their relationship, a Peoplesource said that “she seems really happy" and "all of her friends think he's really cute." And as their relationship progressed, Kaia and Austin kept the details of their romance pretty private (similar to Austin's Dune costar Zendaya & recent fiancé Tom Holland), and told WSJ Magazine that “honestly, I feel like so few things in my life are private, and that is one of the things that I try to keep as sacred as possible."

The couple was very close for a long time, and spent “as much time together as they can,” a source told US Weekly. “Although Austin and Kaia are both in the public eye, they’re really down to earth and have a very secure relationship, so they never let jealousy or anything like that get in the way."

They also supported one another's work, with Austin showing up to Paris Fashion Week and Kaia attending The Bikeriders premiere. Hopefully they can still support one another as friends!

Does Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler's breakup surprise you? I'm shocked, TBH. Let us know your thoughts on Instagram!

It’s no secret that Amazon is packed with some real wacky and wild products. From aesthetically-pleasing sprayable hand sanitizers to “game changing” coffee-powered under eye creams, I scoured the retailer’s (virtual) shelves for these 15 best self-care finds to make your 2025 way easier – and filled with plenty of ‘you’ time.

You’ll find some pretty weird (but amazing) skincare products and bedtime essentials in this list, too, so get ready to put on the best, most relaxing self-care sessions ever in the new year!

Scroll through for 15 of the best “weird but amazing” self-care products that’ll totally transform your 2025!

Amazon

Kiehl's Avocado Nourishing Hydration Mask

This face mask made with avocado delivers results that are just as fun and satisfying as applying it is. It promises "soft and hydrated skin in just 15 minutes."

Amazon

Lifelines Flameless Candle / Essential Oil Diffuser

Essential oil lovers will love this flameless diffuser since it's compatible with any kind of essential oil. There's no flame, smoke, or spilled wax to clean up after use, plus it's gonna look beautiful on any bookshelf or bedside table.

Amazon

Touchland Glow Mist Revitalizing Hand Sanitizer Spray

This hand sanitizer has got to be one of the weirdest (but most amazing) formats for a beauty product I've ever seen. One tiny container delivers 500 sprays full of rose petals, blackcurrant buds, and rosewater to replenish your skin's moisture, all while fighting common germs and smelling delish.

Amazon

Starument Portable Hand Vacuum Cleaner

This "ultra-powerful" cordless vacuum easily sucks up dirt, dust, and other particles off of any surface. It's insanely compact and portable, perfect for cleaning up smaller spaces like your car or work cubicle!

Amazon

Nodpod Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask

Good sleep is the first step to true self-care. This weighted sleep mask provides even pressure and blocks out 100% of light to really help you wind down. You can even pop it in the freezer before use to help tackle pesky mid-day headaches!

Amazon

Alleyoop Tip Off Liquid-Filled Makeup Removing Swabs

These makeup remover-filled cotton swabs are great to keep in your purse for those random makeup mishaps or smudges. The formula is effective but equally calm, so it won't irritate your sensitive eye area or other parts of your skin.

Amazon

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

Made with snail mucin (yes, real snail mucin), this skincare essence has a surprising cult following for its ability to repair dry skin and provide long-lasting hydration. It's a must-have addition to level up your 2025 skincare routine!

Amazon

Good Weird Cold Brew Undereye Cream

Wake up! This under eye cream is powered by caffeine to help de-puff the under eye area, essentially working like an "espresso shot for your face," per the brand. Its unique formula smooths, blurs, diminishes fine lines, brightens skin, and promotes collagen production all at once.

Amazon

Feierdun Adjustable Dumbbells

If you're strapped for space when it comes to at-home workouts, these weird but amazing dumbbells provide the perfect solution, so you don't have to keep multiple sets lying around. They range from 2 to 10 pounds, and are adjustable in 2-pound increments to suit your personal goals.

Amazon

Goshi Exfoliating Shower Towel

Exfoliation is key in retaining healthy, glowing skin! Keep this shower towel on-hand to lather up and clean your skin, all while scrubbing away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.

Amazon

Viozon Tablet Stand Pillow

Resting can be just as productive as working out, journaling, or locking in on your self-care routine are. When it's time to wind down and let your body and mind catch up, this tablet or phone stand pillow comes in super handy with a hands-free design. Simply grab some snacks and post up with this pillow to veg out and watch your fave TV shows or YouTube vids!

Amazon

Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick

Aquaphor... in stick form? I'll take 10 of them, thank you! This is the only formula to truly nourish and heal my dry lips, skin, and cuticles, especially in the winter. The stick format looks so much more convenient than their traditional squeezable tube.

Amazon

Bee's Wrap Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps

These food wraps made from beeswax will help you eliminate (or simply just diminish) your use of single-use plastics in the kitchen. Made entirely of organic materials, you won't be crossing paths with any microplastics or toxic chemicals any time soon. When the wraps no longer retain their shape, they can be easily composted or used as a fire starter!

Amazon

Monstake Automatic Soap Dispenser

This automatic soap dispenser just seems like such a fun purchase, plus it'll upgrade any bathroom or kitchen sink setup. It's compatible with any foaming hand soap, dish soap, or body wash for a luxe feel.

Amazon

LED Light Therapy Face Mask

We adore red light therapy tools over here. This face mask makes reaping the benefits super easy, since you can rock it hands-free. It even has four different modes to target specific skincare concerns like dullness, redness, and acne.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more unique self-care finds!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Valentine's Day is next month, so it's time for a little tough love. Are you ready? Deep breath... You're not going to get far in your relationship by wondering, "What are we doing?" anymore. For such a simple question, it carries the weight of being vague and loaded. It's not that you shouldn't want to know where your relationship is headed, but there are better questions to ask your boyfriend.

From my first relationship to being engaged with an energetic toddler, I know a thing or two about how to broach certain topics. But, I'm no one's expert so I turned to Sean O'Neill, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Director at Maple Moon Recovery, to help you figure out how to get to the heart of your relationship.

Scroll to see which deep questions to ask your boyfriend for a better, healthier relationship!

Andres Ayrton

1. Questions To Ask If You're In The 'Honeymoon' Stage

Whenever we finally move from flirting with our crushes to being in a relationship with them, it's typically followed by a period of euphoria. You and your boyfriend likely can't get enough of each other right now which is probably making your friends playfully roll their eyes. Since everything is brand new, you can still keep it light though.

O'Neill suggests asking "open-ending questions that prompt curiosity and connection:"

  • What's one dream you've never let me in on?
  • What's one little gesture that can make you feel valued?

"These couple of queries facilitate bonding while generating enthusiasm for the goals and interests of each other," he says.

Budgeron Bach

2. Questions To Ask After Your First Big Fight

Even if you and your boyfriend are super tuned in to each other, a disagreement or argument is bound to happen. In case you're worried, your relationship isn't on thin ice because you're not seeing eye-to-eye on something. O'Neill says you can ask:

  • How do you think we handled the argument?
  • What could we do differently next time to make our future fights more productive?

His reasoning is that these questions "promote growth and empathy" so "disagreements are transformed into stronger communication opportunities."

Note: Disagreements should never turn physical. It's not okay for you and your boyfriend to become physically aggressive with each other. If you're concerned about domestic violence, dial the National Domestic Hotline at 1(800) 799-7233.

Keira Burton

3. Questions To Ask Before Introducing Your Boyfriend To Your Parents

Introducing your boyfriend to your parents is a huge step that can be scary and exciting. I was terrified when my parents first met my fiancé because they couldn't stand my ex. But, the conversation between them flowed and everyone always looks for him to be at family events.

If you're ready for introductions to be made, O'Neill wants you to "encourage the normality of preplanned talks" by asking:

  • What is something about me that you think my parents would really love to hear about?

By doing this, he says it'll "help alleviate anxiety and ensure both spouses feel comfortable and attuned before meeting the parents."

Mikhail Nilov

4. Questions To Ask If You Or Your Boyfriend Have An Illness

It's never easy to experience illnesses or health scares, but it can be terrifying if you don't know how to help your partner manage if something unexpected happens. O'Neill says to "nurture insights with queries such as:"

  • What is one thing I could to assist you better when ill?
  • Are there any aspects concerning your healthy that haven't been discussed which make you anxious?

"The conversations provide a safe space for airing concerns while building up mutual support through health difficulties," he adds.

Mikhail Nilov

5. Questions To Ask If You're Worried About Boyfriend's Spending Habits

Financial red flags are always a cause for concern when dating someone — especially when it seems like your boyfriend doesn't care about his spending habits may affect your household if you live together. O'Neill suggests asking:

  • What are your financial goals?
  • How do you see us working towards them together?
  • How do you feel about budgeting as a team?

This will "make goal alignment stronger" because "effective communication about finances can prevent misunderstandings," he says. Also, this helps "lay the foundation for a shared vision of the future."

Bethany Ferr

6. Questions To Ask To Deepen Vulnerability With Each Other

Being vulnerable isn't easy for everyone, let alone two people in a relationship. It took me years to feel comfortable expressing my sadness or fears to my fiancé because I was afraid he'd think I was 'weak.' However, this can cause more harm than good because it becomes difficult for our partners to know what's going on with us if we don't open up.

O'Neill says you can ask:

  • What's one fear or concern you've hesitated to share with anyone before?
  • How can I help you feel safe sharing with me?
These questions "create room for openness and trust between partners" which aids in "helping them connect emotionally," according to him.

Katerina Holmes

7. Questions To Help Move The Relationship Forward

If you're still wondering "what are we doing" after asking some of the above questions, you focus on asking the following "future-oriented questions," according to O'Neill:

  • Where do you see us in 5 years?
  • What's something you envision us doing together as a couple in the future?
"Thinking about what is ahead strengthens commitment to the relationship and brings both partners' goals into line," he says.
Even though my fiancé and I have been together for a while, we still have conversations about our goals, health, raising our son, and more. It helps us to either stay aligned or see what needs to be addressed as opposed to letting physical attraction guide the way we feel 95% of the time.

But that's not all! We have more advice about relationships if you're looking to build a deeper connection yourself, friends, or family in 2025!

Viewers who were ready to watch Meghan Markle's new Netflix showWith Love, Meghan January 15 will have to wait just a little bit longer. Meghan decided to delay the show in the midst of the L.A. wildfire crisis, focusing on being more of a good samaritan and placing her focus on the cataphoric fires that have demolished parts of L.A. Here's what to know about the delayed release of With Love, Meghan — plus, Meghan's efforts to provide L.A. wildfire relief!

Scroll to find out everything you need to know about Meghan Markle's With Love, Meghan release date!

When is the new premiere date of 'With Love, Meghan?'

According to Netflix, With Love, Meghan will now premiere March 4.

What has Meghan Markle said about delaying her show?

We're sure Meghan Markle was excited to share her love for cooking and living in California, but the Duchess is more concerned about the tragedy occurring in L.A. She said, "I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California," via Netflix.

What have critics said about 'With Love, Meghan?'

Meghan's decision and comment about it come on the heels of some people expressing their dislike for the show. Just last week, Meghan McCain shared her own thoughts about With Love, Meghan.

In a rather length X post, she started by saying, "I was originally a Meghan Markle supporter, I thought she was cool, stylish and refreshing." Her tone quickly changed because she believes Markle not only "disrespected the royal family," but McCain also believes Markle "wants to be American again instead of British aristocracy."

She called the trailer for With Love, Meghan "highly curated, produced, and out of touch" because of the "2 terror attacks in 2 days, major wars raging" and the fact people are facing high grocery prices. As if that weren't enough, McCain decided to throw in, "This is why the world doesn’t like you, nothing else. Just completely and utterly tone deaf to the moment" which feels more based on an emotional opinion than fact.

While this criticism came before the terrible L.A. fires struck, it's in line with a lot of criticism Meghan's faced since. However, PEOPLEspoke with an "industry insider" about why they feel Meghan Markle truly decided to delay With Love, Meghan. "Delaying the release of With Love, Meghan was likely an easy decision for her. I don’t think she could imagine putting out a show centered on joy and hosting when so many people in her home state no longer have homes to host people in," the source said.

They also touched on the continued criticism the Duchess is once again facing for her decision not to premiere her show right now. "I think it’s sad that critics are saying she’s only doing this to avoid the fires overshadowing her show. We’re all human, and we’re dealing with a catastrophe."

How have Meghan Markle and Prince Harry been helping those affected by the L.A. fires? 

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are doing their best to help those who have been displaced by the L.A. fires. They've since made their California home a safe haven for those who have been displaced and have been actively assisting in other ways.

For one, they showed up at the World Central Kitchen in Pasadena, California to "help distribute food and supplies to victims of the Eaton fire" last Friday, January 10 (via PEOPLE). At the time, Mayor Victor Gordo said the couple cared about being "as helpful as they can be" and that "they took the time to meet the people that are affected."

They've also listed resources for those who are inspired to help victims as well on their official Sussex site.

We commend Meghan Markle for doing everything she can to assist with L.A. wildfire relief, and TBH we think that's what others should be focused on instead of critiquing her every move.

Follow us on Facebook for more updates.

We've officially gotten through the first week of January, so you know what that means – it's time for another weekly horoscope! With the holidays behind us and the craziness of the year (to say the absolute least) settling in already, it can be helpful to ground ourselves in what the stars have to offer. So here's what you can expect from your weekly horoscope, based on your sun and rising signs! Let's get into it.

Scroll down to see your super lucky weekly horoscope for January 12-19!

What's happening astrologically during January 12-19, 2025?

Julio Lopez

Mars, the planet of action, takes center stage this week, influenced by several important transits. Prepare for heightened emotions and increased activity. The week begins with Mars forming a beneficial trine with Neptune, offering an opportunity to tap into intuition and take action guided by inner wisdom. Creativity will flourish, compelling us to produce, create, or invent. Prioritize self-care as the week intensifies, with Mars aligning with both the Sun and Moon. Strive for balance, love, and sensitivity in personal relationships, and practice kindness whenever possible.

Mars will be especially visible on January 13 and 14, moving in front of the full Moon in the eastern sky as the Sun sets. This rare occultation is a striking event, stirring primal energies that could lead to reactive and volatile responses. Avoid irritable or short-tempered individuals, and if you feel reactive, pause to recalibrate. Lean into your intuition and shift towards a more loving approach. With Mars and the Moon in nurturing Cancer, protective instincts for home and family will be strong. However, Mars’ intensity will also influence global events, eliciting deep emotional reactions.

Nikita Korchagin

On January 14, Mars and the Moon form a square with Jupiter, amplifying emotions further. The key to navigating this energy is to maintain balance and draw wisdom from your feelings. Adding to the dynamic is a trine between Uranus and the Sun, introducing abrupt changes and unexpected ideas. This energy supports bold moves, whether you’re contemplating a major life change or standing up for yourself. Stay mindful, as irritability may lead to rash or harsh actions. Mercury in Capricorn sextiles Saturn it's best to carefully and patiently craft a logical plan of action.

On January 19, the Sun moves into Aquarius, beginning a month-long journey through this innovative and humanitarian sign. Initially, the Sun aligns with transformative Pluto, reinforcing opportunities for change. Aquarius encourages intuitive problem-solving and unique solutions. It’s a hopeful, bright energy that highlights community collaboration, intelligence, and freedom. Themes of innovation and collective progress will take the forefront.

Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

What is your relationship to money and security? This week offers a chance to evaluate whether it's healthy and balanced. Be prepared for unexpected expenses, but also remain open to windfalls, promotions, or opportunities to earn more and take on greater responsibility.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Integrity and honesty take center stage. Acting from authenticity, bravery, and honesty may lead to serendipitous rewards and magical occurrences. Conversely, compromising your integrity may result in hardship and struggle. Choose wisely.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

It’s time to release unconscious habits and patterns that no longer serve you. Pay attention to serendipitous events encouraging you to embrace change. Revealed secrets may help you reevaluate your life and align more closely with your true self. Spiritual growth requires both action and acceptance.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Are you comfortable with your current situation? If so, consider new approaches to achieving your goals. Learn something to expand your consciousness. If you're not satisfied, take this opportunity to redefine your path. Remember, the journey itself can be the lesson. Muster the courage to make changes, even if they seem radical to others.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Unexpected career changes may arise, especially if routine tasks have left you feeling irritable or uninspired. Use your natural courage to make bold moves, whether in your work, appearance, or lifestyle. Embrace change to live more authentically.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

This is a time for a major overhaul of your thoughts and beliefs. Seek opportunities to expand your perspective and challenge old assumptions. A physical journey or educational experience may provide the insight you need to grow. Broaden your worldview to foster soul evolution.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

It's time to do shadow work. Unearth parts of yourself you’ve hidden due to fear of judgment. This introspection may be challenging but offers exponential growth. Enlist a trusted guide or therapist to help you navigate this transformative process.

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Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Relationships require attention and balance. If they’ve been on autopilot, it’s time to reset. Avoid rash decisions; instead, communicate your needs and work collaboratively to strengthen these connections. Thriving relationships require mutual effort and care.

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Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Embrace routine and establish new, healthy habits. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or dietary changes, commitment to a structured plan will benefit you in the long run. Consider enlisting a mentor or coach to keep you motivated and on track.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

While these are serious times, allow yourself moments of spontaneity and self-expression. Let go of relationships or commitments that no longer align with your authentic self. Be open to unique and unconventional connections that support your growth.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Your patience may be tested as unexpected events disrupt your plans. Stay flexible and devise creative solutions to any problems. If you lack a clear plan, go with the flow and trust your innovative thinking to guide you through.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

New opportunities for self-expression are on the horizon. Step outside your comfort zone and take healthy risks. Inspiration may come from a sibling or neighbor, encouraging you to explore fresh ideas and expand your intellectual horizons. Enjoy the freedom to pursue diverse interests.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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