Love used to be described as dramatic, overwhelming, and larger than life. Many millennials grew up dreaming of intense romance like The Notebook, while older generations often believed long-term relationships were about compromise. Now, Gen Z seems to be rewriting the rules entirely with a new idea called “6-7 dating”.
At first, the term sounds confusing, even a little harsh. But the concept behind it is surprisingly simple. Instead of chasing a so-called “10 out of 10” partner, someone who seems perfect in looks, charm, and status, many young people are choosing partners they see as a “6” or “7”. What that really means is picking someone dependable, emotionally mature, kind, and stable over someone flashy or overwhelmingly charismatic.
This shift comes at a time when dating feels exhausting. Dating apps, social media, and endless comparisons have created pressure to find someone exceptional in every possible way. At the same time, situationships and unclear relationships have left many people emotionally drained. Against this backdrop, calm and consistency suddenly look far more attractive than chaos and intensity.
For years, popular culture has shaped how people think about love. Grand gestures in The Notebook, the brooding passion of Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, and even modern shows like Bridgerton have highlighted dramatic chemistry and ideal matches. But even these stories sometimes show characters choosing partners who truly understand and respect them rather than the ones who simply look perfect on paper.
Gen Z appears to be applying that lesson in real life. They are prioritizing shared values, reliability, and emotional safety. Instead of chasing constant excitement, they are asking whether a relationship feels secure and sustainable.
Of course, some critics argue that reducing people to numbers oversimplifies human connection. Others worry that calling it maturity might actually be settling. Ultimately, the idea behind 6-7 dating is less about lowering standards and more about redefining them, choosing peace over pressure in a world already full of noise.
