MODERN DATING
Is the Taxi Cab Theory Trend Really a Thing?
Ever heard of the Taxi Cab Theory in relationships?
You probably did.
Let me tell you about the story of a dear friend. Let’s call him Richard. He was in a solid relationship with this girl for over 11 years. Everyone thought they were the perfect couple, destined to tie the knot someday. But then again, they called it quits in November 2023.
Now, here’s the kicker. In February 2024, just three months after the breakup, he found someone new. And they’re getting married!
I know it sounds like something out of a cheesy romcom, but believe it or not, similar stories are popping up all over social media.
Yep, you guessed it, it’s the Taxi Cab Theory in action, as people call it.
The Origin and What It Is About
The Taxi Cab Theory was introduced in an episode of Sex and the City when Miranda offered a pragmatic perspective about true love to her hopeless romantic friend, Charlotte.
She compared men to taxi cabs by stating that when they’re available, their light turns on. When they’re ready to settle down, they marry the next woman they meet.
This theory posits that love is not primarily about commitment, but rather about timing. It suggests that when a man is ready to settle down, he’ll find whoever is available at that moment and “snatch them up,” much like a taxi driver picking up the next passenger with their light on.
In simple terms, men are akin to cabs: when they’re emotionally available, their metaphorical “light” turns on. The next woman they encounter becomes the one they’ll marry, not due to date, but rather due to dumb luck.
But in an interview by Bustle (Poggi 2023), Michelle Herzog, a therapist, claimed that this Taxi Cab Theory in a relationship is simply not true. There are a lot of men who are looking for a committed relationship.
The theory underscores that commitment doesn’t necessarily align with compatibility. It’s not about finding the perfect partner; instead, it values settling for someone who’s generally pleasant to be around.
Food for Thought
So, this idea that guys are like taxis, only looking for someone to hop in when their “available” sign is lit up, has been floating around the dating world.
It sounds like the Taxi Cab Theory says that chasing after someone who’s emotionally ready for a relationship is a total waste of time.
That makes sense, right? You wouldn’t chase after a cab with its light on, would you? Same idea.
But here’s the thing — this theory is a bit too simple. It paints this picture of men always being scared of commitment, which isn’t always true. Women can be unsure about settling down too, you know?
Plus, the whole metaphor makes it seem like women just have to wait around for the right man to pick them up. It totally ignores the fact that women should be out there looking for someone who clicks with them, someone who wants the same things they do.
Sure, there are couples like my friend Richard and his now-fiancée. But that doesn’t mean it’s all about the taxi cab theory.
Because in the end, a great relationship is about more than just being “available.” You’ve got to have things in common, share similar goals, and actually like each other!
So, forget the idea of waiting for a random cab to show up. Find someone who’s on the same path as you.
The theory might have a point, but for a truly fulfilling ride, focus on yourself, speak your mind, and go find your perfect match!
