28F Dating is getting tougher, anything outside dating apps which works for introverts?
Hey Reddit,
I’m 28F, and honestly, I’m so frustrated with dating right now. Just to give you some background, I’ve been in three relationships in the past:
- 2015-2016 // 2016-2017 // 2022-2023
After my last breakup, I thought I’d put myself out there again, but it’s been so hard. I created what I thought was a really good bio on Hinge, tried answering prompts in a way that would actually spark conversation, and even made the first move a few times. But it just feels like I’m stuck. Either I’m not getting any matches, or when I do, the people aren’t interested in actually connecting. It’s all either “hook up” or “ghost.” Like, what happened to meaningful conversations or at least trying to get to know each other?
What’s even more confusing is that I feel like I don’t understand what people want anymore. There are guys who seem so out of my league that I hesitate to even approach them, and then there are others who seem like they’d be great to talk to but just don’t respond. I’ll be talking to someone, and then out of nowhere, things get weird or the attention completely fades. I’m left sitting here like, "What did I do wrong?"
It feels like no matter how hard I try, I just can’t catch a break. I can’t even step out that much because I have a pet, I live alone, and honestly, I’m a bit of a homebody. I don’t want to date just because I’m lonely or to fill some void—I want to meet new people and build connections. But it feels impossible when the apps are either dry or filled with people who aren’t interested in anything real.
My friends suggested exclusive dating sites, but I quickly realized they were more like sugar dating setups (which is so not my thing), so I noped out of that fast. Now I’m wondering if apps are even worth it anymore. Are there any good groups, threads, or online communities where people actually want to meet and talk? I don’t know much about social events or how to meet people outside of work, and I can’t step out often.
I’m working on myself—I go to the gym, meet up with friends, try new hobbies, and keep busy, but I’m starting to feel like I’ll never figure this dating thing out again. I just need some attention, affection, and actual conversations. So, any advice on how to get back out there or other ways to meet people would mean a lot. I’m feeling kind of lost.
Thanks so much for reading this long rant, I really appreciate it. ❤️