Dating for millennials isn’t the same as it was for generations before them. Those in this demographic (anyone born between 1981 and 1996) have to navigate romance in a way that feels more like “UnDating” than anything else.
Here are 10 unfortunate realities about dating for millennials that make finding true love rather difficult.
1. Digital Overload
Tinder. Hinge. Bumble. With an abundance of dating apps and websites at their fingertips, millennials often have no clue where to even begin. The paradox of choice can make it hard to stick with one match. After all, there are so many other suitors just one swipe away!
2. Communication Confusion
Texting or instant messaging through dating apps has mostly replaced face-to-face interactions. Millennials may be in a tough position where they have no clue if the conversation will ever leave the screen.
This is too bad since the nuances of tone and facial expressions are lost in digital communications. You can’t fully connect with someone if it’s all digital.
3. Ghosting
One of the scariest realities of dating for millennials is the act of ghosting. Ghosting is when someone totally cuts off communication or doesn’t show up without any communication or explanation.
Unfortunately, ghosting is pretty common in the millennial dating world. This often leaves the abandoned person feeling hurt and confused.
4. Commitment Phobia
Depending on when you’re coming onto the dating scene, you may find that the only people left are divorcees or people with children. This creates its own set of baggage.
On the other end of the spectrum, many millennials have a fear of commitment. It’s hard to have a future if they can’t envision one.
5. Financial Stress
According to a recent survey, 16% of millennials still live with their parents. Economic pressures, including student loans and the cost of living, are keeping them inside their family home, putting a strain on their dating life.
It’s just not cool to be an adult and have to sit together far apart on the couch with someone’s parents in the same room. Awkward.
6. Career Prioritization
Millennials often prioritize career growth over romantic relationships. This focus can delay long-term partnering or complicate relationships down the line.
Since they’re so caught up in their careers, an estimated 56% of millennials don’t want to have children. For some, this poses an even bigger problem.
7. The “Hookup Culture”
Millennials are more likely to have one-night stands and quick flings. Many people in this age bracket are taking part in hookup culture, which celebrates casual encounters without commitment.
Marriage isn’t always on the radar. Nor is having kids or settling down with one person.
8. Infinite Benchwarmers
With apps and social media, a sad reality when it comes to dating for millennials is the potential to be put on the back burner. You may seem like a good prospect to a potential suitor, but they’re keeping you hanging to see what else is out there.
You’re not in the game just yet! Odds are, you may never be in the game at all!
9. Social Media Stalking
Sometimes, millennial dating is downright creepy. People have access to your personal information through social media.
They may be uncomfortable stalking you before they even get in contact. This could cause them to make assumptions about you that aren’t true.
10. The Idealization Trap
Unfortunately, millennial dating is influenced by movies and TV shows. This creates false expectations about what a romantic partnership “should” be in real life.
Social media also doesn’t help. Millennials are bombarded with cute couple photos and heartfelt posts between couples.
Dating for Millennials 101
The dating world as a millennial can be a tough place. It’s riddled with unique challenges found only in this modern era.
While these hurdles can be daunting, there is still hope out there for anyone looking for romance! Try a new hobby, go to a fitness class, or attend weekly trivia nights. You never know who you may meet!
Read More:
Healing Family: 8 Ways Baby Boomer Parents Can Reconnect with No-Contact Millennials
18 Cheap Date Ideas That Keep the Romance Alive
Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.