So you've swiped left more times than you've counted and gotten coffee with more potentials than your caffeine tolerance allows. And yet your fairy-tale ending is still nowhere in sight? If you’re feeling exhausted, you might be experiencing dating burnout.
Think of it as the romantic's version of writer’s block. It's when the search for love becomes overwhelming, monotonous, or even disheartening. Symptoms may include excessive eye-rolling, groaning at the sight of another dating app notification, and the notion to adopt ten cats and call it a day.
Well, the first step in any recovery is admitting there's a problem. If you’re feeling disillusioned, disheartened, or just downright tired of the dating scene, acknowledge it. And guess what? It’s okay. Really, it is. But here’s where you go from here:
- Do a digital detox. Put the apps on pause. Not forever, just for now. A little break from the virtual world might just rejuvenate your IRL romantic spirit. Plus, no notifications means more time for Netflix without the chill. Which brings us to…
- Reconnect with yourself. Remember when you had hobbies that didn’t involve swiping or deciding what to wear for a dating app meetup? Rediscover them! Dive into a new book, pick up a new hobby, or just spend a day pampering yourself.
- Seek some advice and feedback. Talk to close friends. Remember, they've seen all your Tinderella phases and Bridget Jones moments from the outside and might offer insights or perspectives that you haven’t considered.
- Choose quality over quantity. Instead of having multiple dates a week, focus on those quality connections. That might mean meeting fewer people, but it’s also going out with only those who genuinely pique your interest or share your values.
- Keep if fun. Make your dates unique. Instead of the usual coffee or dinner, why not a pottery class, an escape room, or a local fair? A fun activity can make the date more memorable and ease the pressure with a potential partner.
- Re-evaluate what you’re looking for. Perhaps what you wanted a year ago isn’t what you want now. It's okay for priorities to change. It's also okay to be unsure of what you want. Just keep the communication clear with those you date.
- Consider professional help. Therapists and dating coaches can provide you with some new tools and strategies to navigate the dating world. It’s not an admission of defeat; it’s about empowerment.
8. And remember, it’s okay to be single! Rom-coms, while entertaining, aren’t real life. Your worth isn’t determined by your relationship status. Embrace your singlehood. Relish in the bed space. Celebrate the freedom. Until you find someone, love yourself. Treat yourself well. And when you're ready to dive back into the dating pool, do it with a splash.