Left On Read? How To Handle Ghosting On Dating Apps Like A Pro

Team MyMuse - Oct 10, 2024

Ghosted? Don't let it haunt you! Master the art of handling ghosting on dating apps with our top tips and focus on matches that deserve you.

If you’re an avid dater, you've probably been through it: everything seems to be going great, engaging convos and good vibes, and then – poof – they vanish. It’s not an immediate disappearance but a gradual pullback. This slow fade in dating is when someone slowly stops responding, leaving you wondering what went wrong.

What Is Ghosting On Dating Apps, Anyway?

Ghosting on dating apps is when someone suddenly cuts off all communication without explanation. No “Hey, I’m not feeling this anymore,” no “It’s not you, it’s me.” Just silence.

And, trust me, ghosting is incredibly common. In fact, in today’s digital dating landscape, it’s become a norm, unfortunately. A lot of people ghost because it’s the easy way out, letting them avoid confrontation. It’s not fun for those of us left on read, though, and it certainly doesn’t make it any easier to brush off and go back to your handheld personal massager.

Why Do People Ghost?

People ghost for all kinds of reasons, and I’ve seen them all! Here are a few of the most common ones I’ve heard (or even guessed at):

Avoiding Confrontation: Sometimes, people think they’re “sparing” your feelings by not giving an actual reason for dipping out.
It’s All About Convenience: Ghosting is quicker and easier than having an uncomfortable conversation. When it’s so easy to meet new people on dating apps, some folks think, “Why bother with closure?”
Fear of Hurting Your Feelings: Ironically, some people ghost because they don’t want to be the “bad guy.” They convince themselves that silence is gentler than honesty. Spoiler alert: it’s not!

How Ghosting Affects You

Getting ghosted on dating apps hits different, doesn’t it? You’re left wondering, “What did I do wrong?” or “Was it something I said?” Ghosting on dating apps can mess with your self-esteem, leaving you feeling rejected or even anxious. Psychologists say that ghosting taps into deep emotional wounds tied to rejection, making us feel abandoned and powerless

Personally, the first time I got ghosted, I kept replaying our conversations in my head. I wondered if I’d come on too strong, or if I’d been too shy. Here’s what I’ve learned since then: when someone ghosts, it’s much more about them than it is about you. So, if you’re in your head about it, remember that it’s likely not a reflection of your worth. Think of it as dealing with a breakup.

Signs You’re Being Ghosted (and When to Let Go)

While I’d love to tell you there’s some foolproof formula for knowing when someone’s ghosting, it’s usually just a gut feeling. Here are some telltale signs:

The One-Word Replies: First, they’re responding with enthusiasm; then, it’s like pulling teeth to get a reply.
The Disappearing Act: They start taking hours, then days, to reply – until, finally, there’s nothing but radio silence.
The Excuses: If they’re “too busy” for days on end, and that busy period seems to stretch indefinitely, you might be on the receiving end of a slow fade.

If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to let go. Don’t waste your precious energy waiting for someone who’s already moved on.

How to Handle Being Ghosted Like a Pro

It might sting a little (or a lot), but there are healthy ways to move forward when you keep getting ghosted on dating apps:

Don’t Take It Personally

Remember, ghosting on dating apps often has more to do with them than it does with you. It’s about their fear, their baggage – not about your worth.

Avoid Negative Self-Talk

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “What did I do wrong?” Instead, remind yourself of your strengths. Take this as an opportunity to practice self-compassion.

Engage in Some Self-Care

Make it a priority to treat yourself. Book a massage, cook my favorite meal, use a personal massager for women, and spend time with friends who actually care about you. A little self-love can go a long way in helping you heal.

Lean on Your Real Friends

Spend time with people who value you for who you are. Friends can remind you of all the great things about yourself that someone who ghosted will never get to know.

See It as a Blessing in Disguise

Truth is, if someone ghosts you, they’re showing you they aren’t mature enough to communicate. And, honestly, don’t you deserve someone who will stick around when things get real?

Block and Move On

Don’t waste energy checking if they’ve come back online or if they’re posting on social media. Hit that block button and free yourself from the mental clutter by enjoying Jack Pro massager for men.

Turning Ghosting Into Growth

While ghosting on lesbian dating apps or other dating apps may seem like a setback, it can be a setup for something better. Take this time to reflect on what you want and don’t want in a partner. The more you know your worth, the more resilient you’ll be. You’re not here to be a “maybe” to anyone – you’re a catch, and the right person will see that from the start.

Pro-tip: If you never want to feel bad about getting ghosted again, just get a MyMuse personal massager for yourself.