Imagine this: you meet someone online and you find there’s a rapport. Over time, you start falling for that person. You think everything is going fine until one day the other person stops responding to your texts and calls. Suddenly, you find out you can’t even reach them through their social media accounts. This rude practice is called ghosting and it’s more common than you think.
What is ghosting?
Ghosting is a form of rejection that is done by completely cutting off all communication from the other party. Although it isn’t entirely new, it has become more prevalent in the advent of social media and online dating applications. With limited physical contact, it has become easier to simply stop responding to someone.
Why does it happen?
Often, people choose to ghost the person they are seeing because they find it easier than telling them how they feel. They assume that it’s less messy than a regular break up. They fail to realize how selfish the act is, especially since the person on the receiving end is often blindsided by it.
How do you bounce back from being ghosted?
Although it can be a discouraging experience, you don’t have to let it define you. You can bounce back from this and find someone who is worth your time and love.
Don’t assume it was entirely your fault.
Ghosting says more about the ghost than the ghosted. Aside from avoiding the uncomfortable breakup conversation, some people choose to ghost because of two other reasons: (1) they thought you were on the same page and (2) they thought the relationship was casual. Although these aren’t the best reasons to ghost someone, it gives you a better understanding of the thought process behind their decision.
Choose reputable dating platforms.
With several dating platforms these days, it may be even more difficult to find someone who is looking for a serious relationship. Rather than signing up for the latest app, look for those that have good results. A matchmaking company, for example, can help you find a significant other that won’t ghost you. These companies often have precautionary measures to weed out individuals who aren’t in it for the long run.
Look out for red flags.
If you have been ghosted before, you have the insights that can tell you if it will happen again. When communicating with a potential partner, be mindful of any red flags.
- They take longer than usual to reply.
- They start making excuses not to talk to you.
- They don’t want to meet up.
- They don’t offer much information about themselves.
- They’re talking to other prospects.
It’s normal to be hesitant towards dating after you’ve been ghosted. But you shouldn’t let it prevent you from meeting new people. If you are worried that it might happen again, talk to your potential partner about it. When the two of you are on the same page, they shouldn’t feel uncomfortable with questions about where the relationship is heading. Remember, communication is essential in building trust in a potential partner.