Dating in 2024: The struggle to find serious connections

At 25, you’d think dating would be exciting—a time filled with potential, discovery, and romantic possibilities. Instead, for many of us, it feels like navigating an endless maze of dead ends and false starts. Despite all the apps, the social events, and the digital tools designed to bring us together, finding someone serious and ready to commit feels harder than ever.

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: dating apps. They were supposed to make everything easier, right? Swipe left for no, swipe right for yes, and—if the stars align—you might just find “the one.” But the reality of dating apps is far less glamorous. They’ve become a playground of misrepresentation.

The Challenge of Dating Apps

One of the hardest parts about dating in 2024 is figuring out who people really are. On dating apps, profiles often showcase an idealized version of the person behind the screen. Perfect pictures, witty bios, and the vague suggestion of looking for something “serious”—but when you finally match and meet, it’s often a different story.

Some profiles are downright deceptive. You connect with someone who claims to want a relationship, only to discover they’re actually looking for a casual fling. Or worse, they’re emotionally unavailable but still fishing for validation. These experiences can leave you feeling jaded and questioning whether anyone on these apps is being honest about their intentions.

Even when you manage to match with someone promising, there’s still the issue of app fatigue. The endless swiping makes people disposable. We’re all guilty of it: one small flaw, and suddenly it’s easier to swipe for someone “better” instead of putting in the effort to see if a connection could grow.

Commitment Is Rare

Another struggle is finding someone who’s genuinely ready to commit. At 25, many of us are in this in-between stage of life. Some are building careers, others are finishing school, and many are still figuring themselves out. For some, the thought of commitment feels overwhelming—they don’t want to “settle down” just yet.

And let’s not forget the impact of hookup culture. While casual relationships can work for some, they’ve also blurred the lines between what people want and what they’re willing to admit. You might meet someone who claims they’re interested in a serious relationship, only for them to ghost you after a few dates. It’s a cycle that can feel exhausting and disheartening.

What’s the Solution?

The truth is, dating in 2024 isn’t impossible—it’s just harder than it needs to be. If you’re looking for something serious, here are a few ways to approach the dating world with a bit more clarity:

1. Be Clear About What You Want

Start by setting clear intentions for yourself. Whether you’re on an app or meeting someone in person, don’t be afraid to state your goals early on. If someone gets scared off by your desire for commitment, they’re not the right person for you anyway.

2. Take Breaks From Apps

Dating apps can be a useful tool, but they’re not the only way to meet people. Taking a step back from the digital world can help you refocus on meeting people organically—through mutual friends, hobbies, or community events.

3. Look for Substance Over Flash

Pay attention to people’s actions rather than their words. Are they consistent? Do they show genuine interest in getting to know you? Substance is far more important than surface-level charm.

4. Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve

It’s easy to lower your standards after a string of disappointments, but don’t forget your worth. The right person will meet you where you are and match your energy.

The Bright Side

Dating in 2024 might feel frustrating, but it’s not hopeless. Every disappointment is an opportunity to learn more about yourself and what you want in a partner. While it’s true that many people on dating apps aren’t as serious as they claim, there are also people like you—genuine, committed, and looking for something real.

So, if you’re tired of the games and the swiping, you’re not alone. Dating may be hard right now, but the right connection is worth the wait. Keep holding out for the person who’s willing to commit, and in the meantime, focus on building a life you love. When the right one comes along, they’ll complement your journey, not complicate it.