We've previously covered ghosting, breadcrumbing and more (terrible)n dating behaviours. Dealing with these behaviours can be challenging, but there are ways to protect your emotional health and approach dating with confidence.
Don’t take It personally.
It’s easy to internalise ghosting or breadcrumbing as a reflection of your worth, but these behaviours are more about the other person’s emotional readiness than about you. Recognise that their actions say more about their state of mind than your value.
Set boundaries early.
Communicate your expectations clearly from the beginning. If someone isn’t meeting those standards, it’s okay to step back. For example, if you’re looking for consistency and someone is breadcrumbing, politely express your needs and let them know what doesn’t work for you.
Focus on actions, not words.
People can say the right things while behaving inconsistently. Pay attention to their actions—do they follow through on plans? Do they show genuine interest in getting to know you? Consistency is key to identifying someone who is serious about building a connection.
Practice emotional resilience.
Developing emotional resilience helps you navigate rejection or ambiguity more effectively. Practices like journaling, mindfulness, and seeking support from friends can help you process emotions and maintain perspective.
Take a break.
If modern dating starts feeling overwhelming, it’s okay to take a step back. Spending time on self-care or pursuing other passions can help you recharge and approach dating with fresh energy when you’re ready.