Relationship Texting Etiquette from a Guy's Perspective

Technology is unavoidable in most modern relationships, which can cause a sense of disconnect or togetherness depending on how you use it. From a guy's perspective in a relationship, I prefer face-to-face talking and phone calls rather than constant daily texts. However, texting, if used properly can strengthen the bold in a relationship in a way that could not happen before the technology. Avoiding these common texting pitfalls with your boyfriend can help strengthen the relationship.

Over Texting

Over texting is the greatest relationship faux pas in the technology era. As much as we want to hear about your day and every little event that occurs, we would rather hear it in person than through texts. Texting in a relationship should either be kept at a minimum or used when texting is more convenient than a phone call, such "dinner @ 7?", which is acceptable versus, "Baby my day is going well, just talked to tiffany and we are going to the mall now, can't wait to get that new dress." Although the second text appears acceptable, it is a story that should be saved for face-to-face conversation, such as showing off the new dress, as it may open more doors for further discussion or a good surprise. Keep texting to a minimum and embrace in person interactions to keep the relationship alive.

Sarcasm

Sarcasm through print is often very hard to distinguish from general animosity or anger. Men, including myself, often misinterpret sarcasm for the literal meaning of the message.

Reading Between the Lines

Sending a message that begs us to read between the lines is always a bad idea. I cannot begin to describe how many texts I have received from girls I was in a relationship with, that wanted me get a different message out of the texts than the literal meaning. Men are not mind readers and are very bad at understanding hidden meanings in print. Tell us what you really mean and we will be there to help, but do not try to send hidden messages and then start a fight because we did not send a sensitive remark back.

Appearing Needy Through Texts

Nothing is a bigger turnoff than appearing needy, for both guys and girls. Sending multiple texts like "I love that we are dating and I wish you were here right now" can quickly become annoying. However, if that example text is sent rarely, it is flattering and endearing. Endearing comments are like a fine wine, it is great once and while, but gets old quick. Endearing comments are also like a luxury item, it is considered a luxury because it is uncommon, but the second it becomes common, it is no longer considered a luxury.

Texting Instead of Calling

Maybe I am one of the few men left that appreciate a phone call or face-to-face talking as opposed to texting, but I find it much more personal than a text. If your relationship is lived through constant texts and pillow talk, do not expect it to last long-term. Make the effort to save important conversation for a phone call or face-to-face, this includes sexual advances, as they are much more appreciated in person than through texts. Take a minute to look over your phone bill and compare minutes of talk time to texts sent, if texts to your lover are more than phone calls, then reassess your strategy.