Dating rejection stings — whether it’s ghosting, a polite no, or that awkward fade-out after a first date. This article breaks down why rejection hits so hard, what it really means (and doesn’t), and how to recover without spiraling. Feel the sting, but don’t stay stuck in it.

"I couldn’t put my finger on it, but something just felt off." Ever had that moment when a match seemed promising — until a phone call, a weird message, or an offhand comment made you hesitate?

Ghosting — when someone disappears from a conversation without a trace — can feel like a punch to the gut. You were vibing, maybe even planning a date, and then… nothing. The truth is, it’s rarely about you. From life getting busy to avoiding tough conversations, ghosting happens for a variety of reasons. Here’s why it stings, how to process it, and how to keep moving forward.