Avoid Ghosting in Online Dating
Here we are in the digital dating era, where heartbreak and love are both accessible with a swipe. It makes you overthink whether you said something incorrectly or if they just disappeared from the world. It's similar to the social media detox you didn't sign up for. So here’s your guide with tips to stay safe on dating apps and avoid pitfalls, keeping your romantic life ghost-free!
Choosing Your Victims (Or Your Match)
It's not exactly a winning tactic to swipe right on every profile like you're giving away free hugs. Seek out for profiles on the online dating app that have substance. No, there is no substance to a bio saying, "Just here for fun." People who have taken the time to write more than "6'2" and include a shirtless gym selfie should be swiped right. If nothing else, you want someone who can at least act like they're searching for more than just a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Be an Expert in Texting First, Not a Chatbot
Ditch the dull intros—“Hey” won’t suffice it. Make the most of your first message because it sets the mood for further conversation. If their dating app profile mentions any interests, start with something lighthearted. Have a picture of your dog? Find out if they or their dog is cuter. Enjoy going on hikes? Start with the light talks, nobody likes the emotional burden on them on the first interaction with your match. Neither does anyone like to read an essay from their match. Be lighthearted, unpredictable, and most definitely not eerie.
Don't be a chatbot once the conversation has started. "How's your day?" and similar generic lines will not get a response. Instead, discuss something original, ask odd questions, or post a humorous meme. You'll be more memorable than a cliched song if you keep the conversation interesting!
Set Realistic Expectations
The harsh reality is that not every match is meant to be your soul mate. People occasionally disappear because there is simply no connection. And it's all right! Yes, we know if you’re planning to ghost someone, just drop them a text clearing it out.
Somehow, people find it easier to ignore the occasional ghosting if you acknowledge that online dating is a numbers game. Consider it natural selection: only those who are genuinely interested will remain.
Spot the Red Flags in Them
The majority of victims of ghosting in online dating isn't your fault. Someone is most likely not that interested in it if their answers give you the impression that they are making "bare minimum effort" efforts.
First dates can be both thrilling and frightening, particularly if warning signs begin to appear. Signs to look out for include, being late and overly dependent on social media, bringing up past relationships, and not respecting personal space. The list of unacceptable behaviors is further expanded by treating service employees disrespectfully or attempting to avoid paying the bill. Not to mention the overly sentimental people or those who declare you their soulmate on the very first day.
Don't waste time trying to save a ship that was already sinking. Tell them politely that you're leaving to pursue more promising opportunities. Who knows, maybe your decisiveness will startle them into taking notice. Or not. In any case, you faced the tough war successfully.
Not to Overshare Too Soon
Don't reveal everything about yourself right away; dating is like peeling an onion; introduce yourself gradually. Save the more serious topics for when the relationship is stronger and keep the initial conversations light and enjoyable.
Additionally, keep in mind that not every match is "The One," and that's okay. It's not always personal, but ghosting does happen. Enjoy the trip free from the burden of assurances and approach every encounter with curiosity rather than expectations.
Can We Avoid Ghosting on These Popular Dating Apps?
This is said by a psychiatrist “I enjoyed speaking with you, but I don’t think we’re a romantic match. Wishing you lots of success in your relationships!”
Online dating doesn't have to be a soul-sucking experience, but it can feel like negotiating a minefield. You can make the process much more tolerable by being true to yourself, establishing boundaries, and not taking every instance of ghosting personally. Who knows? Perhaps you will even come across someone who doesn't vanish into the digital void. In the meantime, continue to laugh, continue to swipe, and most importantly, continue to have faith. Because not putting yourself out there at all is the only thing worse than being ghosted.
