Texting, Ghosts, And Other Modern Dating Hazards

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It’s no secret that modern dating is incredibly confusing, with dating apps, endless rules you’re supposed to follow, and social media completely messing with everyone’s expectations. 

Dating today is awkward, messy, and honestly hard. Let’s go over some of the weird rules, misconceptions, and just how goofy it can get. 

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Texting: Why We Overthink Everything 

Social media loves to act like we’re supposed to know it all when it comes to texting and emojis and all the other hidden rules. But the truth? We're all just figuring it out as we go.   

Everyone’s been there, getting a "ok" or just a "lol" and immediately spiraling. "Oh no, what did I do? Are they not into me anymore?" And we can’t forget the dreaded read but not replied. That one really stings. 

My boyfriend of over a year occasionally does the read but not replied thing. At first, I was like, "What the hell?" But then I realized he’s literally a person like me. Busy happens. I’ve done the same thing.  

Try to remember that they're human just like you, they may get busy, send a text that wasn't phrased right, or just not know how to actually say what they’re trying to say.

And if texting wasn’t confusing enough, ghosting takes it to a whole new level…

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Ghosting: A Modern Horror Story 

Nothing sucks more than putting time and energy into someone only to have them vanish like a ghost. I’m sure I’m not alone in being a victim of ghosting. 

My story? High school. I met a cute guy at a party, we texted, planned to hang out, and then crickets. At first it stung, but eventually I realized it’s not that big of a deal. Pack it up, keep your self-respect even if it’s hard, and move on.

Someone out there will think you’re the most beautiful thing to ever exist. Try not to take it personally, ghosting is more about them than you. 

And speaking of texting, let’s talk about the Olympic sport of overthinking every. single. word.

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Over-analyzing Every Message 

Why is double texting considered the worst crime ever? If I’ve got something to say, you’re definitely going to hear it. Bzz Bzz, yup, me again. 

And don’t get me started on messages with zero emojis or proper punctuation. "I got your message." "Okay." Or God forbid "Ok." Instant fear. Texting doesn’t convey tone like speaking does, so a little emoji or a "lol" goes a long way. 

With that being said, emojis are confusing as hell. I’ll admit I've spent more time analyzing them than deciding what I want for dinner. My favorite example? A serious text followed by the laughing crying emoji. Poor girl didn’t realize that’s not an actual crying emoji. 

Honestly, the easiest solution is to let it roll off or just ask for clarification. Don’t let unspoken rules make you guess endlessly. Chances are they’ve needed clarification on something you’ve said too. 

Pro tip: Don’t read into every emoji. Some people just don’t know how to use them.

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Not single, not taken, Totally Confused

Ah yes, you didn't think I'd skip over this one did you?

Situationships AKA emotional Limbo.

This one especially sucks. You get all the perks of a relationship like cuddling, going on dates, Netflix and chill (wink wink), but not the label. Its the most confusing thing ever.

Do you talk to other people?

Do you not?

So many questions, but in todays age you can't even ask those questions without scaring someone off.

I blame dating apps and social media for this mess. They’ve skewed everyone’s perception of connection, making people think they’re swimming in endless options. And sure, technically you do have options, but a like on your Instagram post or a late-night “slide up” is not the same thing as someone choosing you.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to sit in limbo forever. If you’re like me, you sit them down a month in and drop the dreaded “so… what are we?” talk. Spoiler: it worked for me. 😉

And honestly?

I think it’s worth the leap. Worst case, you get clarity. Best case, you finally stop guessing and start building something worth your time.

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Finding the Funny in the Fiasco 

Modern dating is ridiculous. Laugh at it. We’ve all experienced fails, awkward double texts, or ghosting. It’s part of life. Embrace it, laugh at it, and survive it. We’ve all been there, ready to throw our phone into the ocean after one awkward interaction, swearing off dating forever… until we redownload the app a week later.

Case in point. I matched with someone on a dating app who ghosted me. I was so embarrassed I literally deleted the app and never looked back. Lesson learned. Self-respect feels better than digital humiliation. 

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Self-Respect in the Digital Age 

Self-respect is hard to learn. Everyone says have self-respect, but no one explains what it actually looks like. Here’s the breakdown: 

Boundaries: Stick to them. If something makes you uncomfortable, stand firm. You can’t say the wrong thing to the right person. 

Self-Love: Treat yourself like you would someone you truly love. Make yourself dinner, compliment yourself, care for yourself, and honor your boundaries. 

Remember, your worth isn’t defined by someone else’s texts, replies, or ghosts.

You’re so much more than that. 

Texts will confuse you. Ghosts may haunt you. Situationships may test your sanity. But a little humor goes a long way. So when you have your next ‘oh my God, what have I done’ moment, laugh at it. Chances are, they’ve been there too. Take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and keep going

Want more laughs and encouragement? Subscribe to my newsletter, follow me on socials, and drop your wildest dating moment in the comments. Let’s laugh through it together! 

As always, I’m so glad you’re here. 

Talk soon,  

Aurelia