When it comes to dating, everyone more than likely experiences a lousy run. Don’t get us wrong! Not every date will be successful, but there comes a time when there are so many “bad” dates in a row that it may be time to take a break from dating. Whether you’ve been single for a while or are new to the scene, it’s important to know signs you are in a dating rut.

Do you dread getting ready for dates or shrug your shoulders when your friends ask about your dating life? If you’re starting to feel indifferent to finding the love of your life, that is the No. 1 sign you should take a step back from dating. Here are five more signs you are in a dating rut!

1. You are on multiple dating apps.

The invention of dating apps completely changed the scope of dating. You now have multiple choices at your fingertips and can get to know someone before meeting them in person. However, the apps can make dating more difficult than expected, especially if you are on several apps.

If you have signed up for multiple dating apps, you are more than likely taking dating too seriously. Though you may be ready to find the person of your dreams, overloading yourself with options is not the answer. If this applies to you, delete the apps for a few weeks. Focus on self-care, then when you return to the apps, use one app for a few weeks.

2. All of your dates look similar.

One of the more obvious signs you are in a dating rut is if all of your dates are starting to look the same or they all have similar personalities. While having a type or some physical preferences is perfectly fine, how can you find your person if you are unwilling to try something new? Additionally, if your “type” hasn’t worked out so far, why keep dating the same type of person?

3. You haven’t made it past the second or third date with anyone.

When you are single and dating around, it is easy to lose count of the amount of dates you have been on. It is even harder to keep track of how those dates went. Take the time to tally up the dates you have been on in 2024. Do your best to remember how far you got with those dates.

If you find that you have had many failed first dates, you are more than likely in a dating rut. Not every date can go well or lead to marriage. However, if no progress is made, you will probably choose the wrong people to date.

4. You like every person you meet.

For the girlies who consider themselves hopeless romantics, you may be doing yourself a disservice. While it is great to remain open-minded, if you see “potential” in every person you date, you may be a little too determined. Though dating ruts are not the best place to be, please don’t be so desperate to leave it that you ignore major red flags.

5. Your self-esteem is dwindling.

Whether you are in a dating rut or not, dating can take a massive hit on your self-esteem. Failed dates, ghosting, and rejection are enough to make anyone feel less than. When you feel yourself being more and more critical of your body or personality, take a step back from dating and focus on yourself for a while.

Most people want to find love. However, it is not worth sacrificing your sanity for! If one or more of these signs apply to you, take 30 days away from apps and dating. Do something for yourself or hang out with friends and family. Once you return, you’ll be refreshed and ready to try again.

Which of these signs you are in a dating rut applied to you? Let us know in the comments below.

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