Let’s be honest, many of us aren’t at our best when it comes to casual dating, especially online dating. I’ve talked to perfectly nice people and gone on casual dates for no reason at all. I was too biased. I’ve messaged someone for two months without ever meeting them. And I’ve spent hours scrolling without ever replying to a casual dating message. As we start a new decade, let’s start 2024 off on the right foot by ditching some of the harmful behaviors we’ve all become too accustomed to. This isn’t casual dating. The anonymity of the internet has led everyone to act a little weird (or completely crazy) from time to time. With infinite scrolling options and the ability to constantly check in on every ex you’ve ever dated, we have much more access than ever before. And what’s even more problematic is that more and more bad behavior is normalized. Not only is it easier than ever to behave in weirder, more flirtatious ways, but it’s also more casual. But we can do better, whether that be having more success on dates and having a chance to find what we want (whatever that may be), or just treating people a little more considerately. Let’s aim higher. So, without further ado, here are 7 harmful casual dating behaviors to stop, as it’s time for a new decade and a fresh start.
Ghosting is the original trashy casual dating trend that probably came out of online casual dating, and it’s here to stay. While you’re under no obligation to be upfront about why you don’t want to see them anymore, a simple message that you’re simply not interested can clear up any confusion. And it’s a lot better than leaving someone hanging. You want to leave someone the way you want to leave them, right? Some say the problem isn’t looking around too much, but rather not trying you. Sometimes you are in a relationship that is just as disappointing as being in one that is much worse. If you tend not to be able to settle and be single all the time, be alone for a while, let off some steam, and feel confident enough to settle down only when it is appropriate.
Yes. It is so annoying. It is stressful when you don’t know what is going on and someone likes your posts or watches your stories, or you are in a casual relationship but not ready to meet, or you refuse to reveal things. I know this is easy to do when you have access to a social media account and you’re a little bored or strapped for cash, but we’re all getting too old for that sort of thing.
