So, you’ve survived the first date. The awkward handshakes, the small talk, the “what do you do for a living?” routine. You thought things might go somewhere, but now you’re not so sure. Is this person The One? Or do they belong in the “thanks, but no” pile? Here are 10 signs that might just be telling you it’s time to pull the “ghosting” move and run.
1. THEY TALK ABOUT THEMSELVES… A LOT
You know the type: they go on and on about their job, their gym routine, their pet iguana, and it’s like they think they’re auditioning for their own reality show. If you didn’t get a word in edgewise, that’s a pretty big red flag. You’re there to get to know each other—not just to hear about how many LinkedIn recommendations they have. If you felt like an audience instead of a date, it might be time to ghost.
2. THEY BRAG ABOUT THEIR EX
Let’s be clear: we’re not talking about a casual mention here and there. We’re talking about them practically setting up an altar to their ex in the middle of the table. If they keep comparing you to their ex in every possible way, or worse—still seem obsessed with the ex—it’s probably best to run for the hills.
3. THEIR PERSONALITY IS A WHOLE LOT OF NOTHING
Some people just don’t have “it.” You know, that sparkle that makes you want to hang out with them again. If you can’t figure out who they are by the end of the date, it might be because they’re a walking, talking shell of a person. If they’ve got no passion, no interests, and you’re just sitting there wondering if they’re secretly a robot, it’s time to vanish like a Snapchat message.
4. THE CONVERSATION WAS A ONE-WAY STREET
A good date should feel like a fun, flowing conversation—not an interrogation. If you found yourself doing 90% of the talking while they just nodded and stared blankly, then consider this your sign to ghost. Dates should be about connecting, not pulling teeth to get a sentence out of someone.
5. THEY’RE RUDE TO THE STAFF
Okay, so they get the wrong order. Things happen. But if they’re snapping at the waiter or making snide comments to the bartender, you have a real problem. It’s like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days—you might not be eating a salad with a guy who’s rude to waitstaff, but this is real life and bad manners are a huge turn-off. If they treat others poorly, that’s how they’ll likely treat you too.
6. THEY’RE WAY TOO DESPERATE
Look, we all want love. But if they’re already talking about “the future” after one date or asking if you want to meet their parents in the next 24 hours, you might want to slow your roll. You’re not signing a lifelong contract after the appetizer. Desperation is a sign of insecurity, and who needs that?
7. THEY CAN’T STOP CHECKING THEIR PHONE
Your date might have been a snooze-fest, but they should at least pretend to be interested. If they’re constantly checking their phone, texting, or scrolling through Instagram, that’s a clear indicator that they’re just not that into you. Or, they’re secretly texting someone else. Either way, ghost them and save yourself the embarrassment.
8. THEY MAKE WEIRD COMMENTS ABOUT YOUR APPEARANCE
It’s one thing to compliment your looks in a sweet, respectful way. It’s another when they make borderline inappropriate comments about your outfit, your body, or your hair. If they’re critiquing how you look as if it’s a reality show audition, it’s time to run.
9. THE CHEESY PICK-UP LINES WON’T STOP COMING
We’re all for a little humor, but if they’re throwing out corny lines like they’re auditioning for a dating show—and not in a funny, lighthearted way—it’s a clear sign things aren’t going to work. If they’re still trying out pickup lines from the ’90s or quoting random movie scripts, save yourself the awkwardness and ghost them. Trust us, you don’t need a personal stand-up comedian when you’re just trying to have a decent conversation.
10. YOU’RE JUST NOT FEELING IT
This one’s the most important: trust your gut. If the sparks aren’t flying, the chemistry is off, and you just feel… meh, then that’s all the reason you need. Don’t waste your time convincing yourself that the “right person” is just around the corner. If it feels like a hard pass, it’s time to ghost and move on to someone who actually gives you those butterflies.
So there you have it! If your date is ticking off any of these boxes, you’re probably better off letting them fade into the background. Trust your instincts. Go ahead and ghost—your future self will thank you.
