Hey everyone! I'm Yuna Kawamura, a Gen Z writer.
Lately, my friends and I keep debating this ultimate question: "Who's more important - your bias or your boyfriend?" It's such a tough one, right...!
The truth is, for us Gen Zers, **fandom activities and romance aren't opposing forces - they're both things we can cherish**. Today, I'll explain our new relationship values with some real-life stories!
Why Gen Z's View on Love Has Changed
Growing Up in the Social Media Era
We Gen Zers have grown up with social media as a natural part of our lives. Checking our bias's updates on Instagram or TikTok and posting date photos on Stories - they're both just part of our daily routine.
That's why we don't see **"fandom" and "romance" as separate things, but as important elements that both enrich our lives**.
Actually, I often hear stories like "going to concerts with my boyfriend" or "became lovers with someone from my fan community." Relationships where you understand each other's hobbies tend to last longer!
Embracing Diversity as Our Default
One characteristic of Gen Z is that we **naturally embrace diversity**. The old ideas like "you must be devoted only to romance" or "you can't date if you're into fandom" are so outdated.
We believe it's okay to be honest about what we love. Whether it's our bias or our partner, we have the capacity to cherish both.
Tips for Balancing Fandom and Romance
1. Share Your Values with Your Partner
The most important thing in balancing fandom and romance is **sharing your values with your partner**.
My friend A-chan told her boyfriend early in their relationship: "I have a bias, and while it's different from romantic feelings, they're really important to me." He was confused at first, but now they go shopping for merchandise together!
The key is helping them understand that **fandom doesn't interfere with romance - it enriches who you are**. With that understanding, your partner will surely accept it.
2. Get Creative with Time Management
Want to enjoy both fandom and romance? But time is limited... That's when **creative time management** becomes crucial.
For example:
- Weeknight evenings for fandom, weekends for dates
- When there's a concert, dedicate other time to your partner
- Find a partner who can join your fandom activities (this is the best!)
The point is **not sacrificing either one, but managing a schedule where you can enjoy both**. Using Google Calendar to visualize both fandom and romance plans really helps!
3. Respect Each Other's "Bias"
Actually, many partners have their own "bias" too. Whether it's an idol, athlete, or VTuber... the forms differ, but the feeling of supporting someone is the same.
**A relationship where you respect each other's biases** is really healthy. Being able to say "You have your bias's stream today, so I'll hang out with friends" creates a stress-free environment for both.
Dating in the Social Media Age
Expressing Love Through Instagram Stories
Gen Z romance is inseparable from social media. **Sharing daily moments with your boyfriend on Instagram Stories**, making couple TikToks together.
But what's important is not being too focused on "looking good." Social media is just a tool for preserving memories, not the star of your romance.
My favorite posting styles:
- Casual daily moments (like holding hands at a cafe)
- Enjoying each other's hobbies together
- Regular dates, not just anniversaries
Balancing Online and Offline
**Social media connections matter, but real-time together matters more**. This is super important!
Not checking phones too much during dates, cherishing time together. It's basic, but as the social media generation, we need to consciously create "digital detox" time.
New Possibilities in Dating
New Connections Through Fandom
What's increasing lately is **meeting people through fandom activities**. People who support the same bias often share similar values.
Becoming friends through Twitter replies, meeting at fan gatherings, then suddenly becoming lovers... it's not uncommon. Having common topics makes conversation flow, and supporting your bias together is fun!
Fandom Appeals on Dating Apps
**Writing about fandom in dating app profiles** is totally normal now. Like "I stan ○○" or "Looking for someone to go to concerts with" - you can find someone who shares your interests from the start.
Being open about fandom instead of hiding it increases your chances of meeting understanding partners! Isn't this a really efficient way to start dating?
Conclusion: Enjoy Dating Your Way!
Gen Z's view on romance has shifted from traditional "romance supremacy" to **"enjoying romance while cherishing what you love"**.
Both fandom and romance enrich our lives. Having to choose one over the other? That's such a waste!
What matters is:
- Respecting each other's values
- Managing time creatively
- Maintaining online-offline balance
- Staying true to yourself
**You can date with a bias, and enjoy fandom with a partner**. This flexible thinking is becoming Gen Z's new standard.
Everyone, find your own dating style and enjoy both fandom and romance to the fullest!
The new form of romance we Gen Zers are creating - it'll be freer, more fun, and more authentically us♡
