Dating apps are a great way to meet people, but they can also lead to burnout. It’s a common phenomenon that happens in our fast-paced, digital world, and experts are here to help.
“Dating app burnout is a normal part of the process,” says Kiaundra Jackson, licensed marriage and family therapist. She explains that it occurs when people feel like they’re using the apps for more than what they really are.
1. Take a break
Taking a break from dating apps can be a good way to clear your mind and reevaluate what you want out of online relationships.
Dating should be fun, exciting and rewarding. But if you’re constantly swiping through profiles, meeting people you don’t enjoy and feeling disappointed every time it doesn’t work out, it might be time to take a break from it altogether.
You’re spending hours a day checking your Tinder, Hinge or OkCupid and you’re feeling burned out from all the effort it takes to make these relationships happen.
This could be a sign that you’re trying to get external validation, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. You may also be acting out of desperation.
2. Be selective
As a dating coach, I’ve seen clients make the mistake of using every dating app on the market. The reality is, not all apps are created equal and the one that will be best for you will depend on your specific goals, personality, and preferences.
The right dating app can help you find the love of your life. In addition to finding you a match, it can also provide you with some useful dating tips and tricks along the way.
As a bonus, you can use these strategies to improve your dating game without spending a single penny. You’ll be surprised at the results. The key is to be selective about which app you use, and how often. This will save you time, energy, and most importantly, heartache.
3. Try something new
When you’re feeling burnt out from dating apps, it’s time to try something new. This can be anything from joining a club you haven’t been to before or trying out a new hobby.
If you have a strong interest in a topic or activity, look for a local club or organization that you can join to make it easy to meet people who share your interests. Volunteering at an animal shelter, for example, or making a birthday cake is an excellent way to get in touch with someone who is passionate about the same things you are.
If you’re unsure about how to start trying something new, write down positive outcomes that can happen for you and keep them in mind when you feel anxious. That way, you can take a deep breath and move forward with confidence.
4. Get out of your comfort zone
Getting out of your comfort zone isn’t always easy, but it can be a great way to get more out of dating. It can also help you learn more about yourself and what you’re looking for in a partner.
A lot of times, the reason you’re feeling burned out on dating apps is because you’re constantly focusing on it too much.
In that case, try to take a break from it. It doesn’t mean you’re giving up on finding love — it just means you’re prioritizing other areas of your life, like your work and hobbies, to give yourself the time you need to find a date.
If you’re looking for a date, a new hobby is a great way to step out of your comfort zone. Plus, it can open up opportunities to meet new people who are into the same things you are.
5. Get help
If you feel like you’re burnt out, it’s time to get some help. A therapist can help you find the root cause of your fatigue and get you back on track to finding love.
Dating apps can be a great way to meet new people and find your next date, but they also can be incredibly exhausting. It’s easy to lose sight of what makes you happy when swiping right on endless matches, or getting into long-drawn-out talks with people who never seem to progress.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to combat dating app fatigue and make it more enjoyable again. Start by taking a break from the app and doing something else that gives you some time to yourself.