(23F) After a bunch of situationships that went nowhere, I finally get why both sides treat relationships and casual so differently. How can I learn to keep that casual frame without slipping into girlfriend energy? Really investing emotionally and trying to build something deep takes a ton of energy. The odds that someone is actually compatible enough long-term feel tiny, like 1/100. That explains all the 'not looking for anything serious right now' followed by seeing them with someone else a week later. I don't judge guys for it anymore. On the flip side, if you're just vibing with low pressure and no expectations, the mental load of hooking up stays pretty light. I noticed I tend to give girlfriend energy too early, not with gifts or anything, but with constant warmth, quick replies, and being overly available. Some guys I've met were great and deserved that, but with others it just felt off and probably killed any casual potential. It's tricky because I do want something real eventually, but I'd like to keep options open for fun without the heavy vibe. I've read stuff like No More Mr Nice Guy and Models to understand the other side better, but from my angle I'm wondering what the actual switches are. Is it mostly physical stuff like looks and fitness that set the ceiling for regular casual success, or are there specific mindset and behavior changes that help stay in that low-stakes lane? I mostly meet people through mutual friends and apps, and I want to figure out how to dial it back without coming across cold.