How to Ditch Dating Apps Forever
We’ve all heard horror stories: “I swiped right, and then _____ (fill in the blank with any number of cringy dating experiences).” If we’re being honest with ourselves, we probably have a story like that in our own library, and that’s ok, too. This isn’t about the past - this is about the future – and how to ditch the dating apps forever.
Let’s dive into these topics:
Why are dating apps so addictive?
Is online dating the only way to meet someone?
What can I do instead of online dating?
When to use dating apps?
How to know when you’re ready to date?
We’ll get you off this ride soon, but until then, strap in.
Why are Dating Apps so Addictive?
Even if we’re frustrated with dating apps, we often find ourselves having trouble ignoring them, deleting them, or not getting caught up in an emotional whirlwind while using them.
Dating apps mimic the user engagement on social media, meaning they’re designed to modify your behavior towards addictive usage. This is called intermittent reinforcement, and it relies on dopamine rush from responses – both positive and negative.
To put it more simply, dating on apps is its own mental gauntlet that you have to manage before you even get a chance to meet up for a drink with a potential partner.
Is Online Dating the Only Way to Meet Someone?
No.
Online dating is not the only way to meet someone, but it is often presented as the preferred and obvious method in the modern romantic world. However, online dating isn’t for everyone – and apps are also used by a wide range of people with different goals.
Sometimes, it’s good to be honest with ourselves about the results we’re having with apps, or just realizing they aren’t producing the kinds of partners we’re looking for at this point in life. There’s nothing wrong with feeling like that in the present, and there are no rules against changing your mind later.
What can I do Instead of Online Dating?
There are many tried-and-true options that have helped people find love for centuries, including:
1. Through friends
2. Using a matchmaking service
3. At concerts, bars, or social events
4. At work (sorry, we’re just being realistic!)
5. Through family
6. Church, sports, or other group activities
These are just five of the ways to meet a date that’s not an app. The best part is that if you are a part of any activity or social group where you can enjoy yourself and showcase your personality, you can potentially meet that special someone!
When to Use Dating Apps?
Like we said, there’s nothing inherently wrong with using dating apps; they just might be reserved for a specific time in your life or used sparingly.
If you find yourself repeatedly becoming frustrated with people ghosting you, or not making good conversation after a match, it might be time to take a step back. While these are annoying events, they are baked into a dating experience that relies on algorithms and a significant volume of people.
However, if you’re new to an area, or just looking to brush up on your awkward small talk, chatting on Bumble BFF, or a similar site, could help you meet new people before you’re ready to start dating.
How to Know When You’re Ready to Date?
There’s no one-size-fits all solution for dating – this is actually one reason why the apps can be so frustrating. We recommend being extremely honest with yourself about what your dating needs are, what type of partner you are looking for, and what will make you happy in a relationship.
These aren’t easy conversations to have, and sometimes it can be better to get honest feedback from an objective source. This is why dating coaches and matchmaking services like Date Sexier get proven results – they offer constructive changes to our dating habits that we might not have thought of before.
If you’re interested in learning how a matchmaker can save you time, reduce stress, and help you find an ideal partner, sign up for our Friday Newsletter today. We’ll skip the small talk and only send you awesome dating advice.
