He wants me to date other guys…

I agree you might be one of the lucky ones! I don’t think our advice was bad. MOST of the time a man telling you to date other men is a terrible sign. Also I appreciate that y’all are exclusive and he’s your boyfriend – but that’s different than a man who sees a future with you. Having you around exclusively so he doesn’t have to look for anyone else is different than him saying please don’t date others and talking about joining lives eventually. I hope it goes that route for you if you want. There are women in exclusive relationships who are still placeholders. But you will be able to tell going forward if he is investing in you. Not just with trips or introducing you to people, but talking about shared future. And you are right in that – only you know your relationship best! There will always be outliers, but this forum advises on the bell curve of men. And if a guy is really into you, and has healthy self esteem, he would normally never say to a woman he’s interested in – ya go ahead and date other men. I hope the best for your budding relationship.