Let's pretend you just came back from your first date with someone incredible. You had the best time, you laughed, you connected, and you definitely want to see them again. The next logical step is to go on a second date, which, hopefully, will be as great as the first. Then you keep going on dates with them, and every time it feels so natural and so right, like you really belong together. You don't want to rush things, and that's completely understandable. But you keep wondering: what if we were more than just dating?
The best course of action in a situation like this is to be honest about your feelings. I know it's not easy, but if you clear the air at the beginning, you'll save yourself from a lot of heartbreak.
Not everybody is looking for the same kind of relationship, and that is completely fine. Some people want something casual; some others prefer to start slow and see where it goes, and others are dating because they want to find their forever soulmate. All options are okay and are acceptable, as long as you and your partner are in agreement. If one of you is not sure or feels insecure, it's time to review the arrangement.
Some people are afraid to talk about important things in the first few dates because they think they're coming on too strong, or that you'll scare the other person away. I understand that fear completely, but you have to be realistic. You're not teenagers anymore; you can't afford to get emotionally attached to someone who doesn't want the same out of life that you do. Doesn't matter if you're dating to marry or just to have fun. Both of you have to be on the same page. It's scary to talk about it, and it's hard, but it's for the best. Trust me, if you clear the air first, you'll go into the relationship (whatever its nature is) with a lot less anxiety and uncertainty about yours and the other person's expectations.
If that first try doesn't work out, don't overthink it! There's someone out there who matches you and with whom you'll feel happy and safe. My grandmother always says that "There's a lid for every pot," and I totally agree. Just because you didn't find your match on the first try doesn't mean you never will. It's just a matter of time, patience, and honesty with yourself and the other person.