Just to be clear, I am trying to understand the other side, and LTR is the context here.

By simultaneous dating, I am referring to, for example, going on dates with 2 or more people on the same day or week, then choosing which one to proceed with further.

Doesn't this create an even more competitive environment where you will be comparing your dates' looks, assets, character, etc.?

From my point of view, unless the other person is genuinely a bad person, comparing one with another will only lead to more superficial traits being prioritized.

For example:

  1. Looks: someone you are attracted to, let's say is a 7 (I don't like numbering people but am only doing so for the sole purpose of giving a better context), but you also went on 2 more dates with people who were more attractive in looks. Your first instinct would be to cut contact with the 7 and proceed with the others.

  2. Money & Status: let's say our 7 makes 50K a year while the others make 100K+. Again, the higher the wage, the more attractive it becomes to pursue them.

  3. Personality: yet the most important factor will not be fully known unless you go on 3+ dates with them and put your effort into talking for hours, having deep conversations, etc.

My point is, if you are seeking your significant other, comparing him with others will make him seem less attractive to you, even if in different circumstances you would, for sure, seek exclusivity with them. Yet simultaneous dating will influence your decision making whether you want it or not.

If you haven't guessed by now, if I'm dating someone, heck, even just flirting, I will put my whole focus and energy into a single person so I can make a decision if they are 'the one' or not. Does it really matter if it is time-consuming or not if, in the end, you are genuinely connected to someone you want?