Dating for a long-term relationship and it doesn’t go your way

Just like you're evaluating whether someone fits into your life, they're doing the same. Not being a fit for one person doesn’t mean you won’t be for someone else.

Dating comes with its own set of emotional highs and lows. You may be clear about wanting a long-term relationship, but sometimes, the response from the other end just doesn’t match. Whether it’s ghosting, lack of reciprocation, or no follow-up after an in-person meet, the disappointment can feel deeply personal.

Before you spiral into overthinking, here are 3 very real scenarios and recommended ways to handle them.

1. You liked them. They didn’t feel the same way

It hurts, but it's common. You felt aligned on values, lifestyle, and perhaps your must-haves. But they didn't see you the same way.

Here’s the truth: it’s not a reflection of your worth.

Just like you're evaluating whether someone fits into your life, they're doing the same. Not being a fit for one person doesn’t mean you won’t be for someone else.

2. You were texting consistently and then ghosted

Texting has become the default way to get to know someone. But it's also where miscommunication and misinterpretation thrive.

You may have assumed connection, but perhaps they were only texting casually bored, lonely, or unsure.

Please stop making dating decisions based only on texting.
Instead:

Use messages to schedule calls or meets
Share light anecdotes
Play a quick game like Two Truths and a Lie
Keep texting under 5–7 minutes daily till you have not had a few in -person interactions

And please do not overshare your life story too early may make you feel vulnerable before trust has been built.

3. You met them, enjoyed it but heard nothing after

Yes, this happens. You felt a spark, laughed over coffee, maybe even imagined a second meet. But it didn’t happen.

That doesn’t mean you were wrong to feel a connection. But it does mean don’t emotionally invest too quickly, and/ or make assumptions that the prospect feels the same as you.

Instead:

Keep your first few meet to 20–30 minute. If longer then meet over an activity
Make it a light activity (like a walk) instead of a meal or coffee
Treat it as an intro, not a commitment

Early dating is about meeting people, not proving yourself.

Dating is layered. It’s easy to feel disheartened when things don’t go your way. But every experience is a step closer to finding your person.

Don’t rush, don’t overshare, and above all—don’t lose yourself in the process.

You’re not being rejected. You’re being redirected.

The Author is the founder of andwemet a service built for single Indians 28, 29, 30 and above looking for a long term relationship.

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