Lots of modern people face ghosting regularly, especially if they use online dating to find love. But what is ghosting? Of course, it has nothing to do with actual ghosts – the only similarity is that people you talk to disappear without any particular reason. In this text, we’ll find out what ghosting in texting is and how to cope with it.
The many faces of ghosting
Let’s imagine that you’re trying to find someone on Instagram or anywhere else. You start chatting with them, but suddenly they stop replying or even getting online. So, what is ghosting on social media?
Ghosting isn’t just about ignoring messages—it can take different forms, such as:
- The slow fade. They reply less and less over time until they disappear completely;
- The instant vanish. They suddenly stop responding, block you, or delete their profile;
- The selective ghost. They still engage on social media (liking posts, watching stories) but ignore your messages;
- The resurfacing ghost. They disappear for a while, then randomly return as if nothing happened.
Each type of ghosting can be frustrating because it leaves you wondering what went wrong. But the important thing to remember is that their disappearance is about them—not you.
Why do they ghost?
We’ve talked about what ghosting in dating is. Ghosting can happen for many reasons, and understanding them can help you take it less personally.
- They want to avoid an awkward dialogue. Instead of being honest about their feelings, some people find it easier to simply disappear;
- They lost interest but don’t know how to say it. Instead of rejecting you directly, they take the easy way out by disappearingt;
- They’re overwhelmed or emotionally unavailable. Some may ghost because they have too much going on in their personal life and can’t handle a relationship or even casual conversations;
- They enjoy the power of control. Some ghosters don’t care about the feelings of others—they like the idea of being able to disappear without consequences;
- They weren’t serious from the start. In online dating, some people just want attention, validation, or casual fun without commitment.
How to handle ghosting like a pro
It can happen to anyone, and it’s usually not your fault. So, how can you handle it like a pro?
Accept that it happened and don’t chase
The worst thing you can do after being ghosted is to keep texting or calling them. If they wanted to talk to you, they would. Their silence is their answer. Respect yourself enough to let them go.
Don’t take it personally — it’s about them, not you
It’s easy to blame yourself, but in reality, ghosting is often about the other person’s inability to communicate. It doesn’t mean you weren’t interesting, attractive, or good enough. It just means they weren’t the right match for you.
Focus on what makes you feel good
Instead of dwelling on a person who disappeared, shift your energy to things that make you happy. Spend time with friends, explore hobbies, or start new conversations with people who actually appreciate you. The quicker you move forward, the less power ghosting has over you.
Stop looking for closure — it won’t come
One of the hardest parts of ghosting is the lack of closure. You might feel like you need an explanation, but the truth is, you don’t. Closure comes from within. Realize that their actions show their character, and you don’t need a final message to confirm that.
Learn to spot ghosting red flags early
Some behaviors can warn you that a person might ghost you later:
- They avoid deep conversations;
- They only speak to you when it’s convenient for them;
- They don’t make any effort to meet or call;
- They disappear and reappear without explanation.
If someone is showing these signs, don’t invest too much emotionally—protect yourself instead.
Set stronger boundaries in the future
If ghosting has happened to you more than once, it may be a sign that you need to set better emotional boundaries. Don’t give too much too soon—wait until the other person has proven they are serious before investing your time and emotions.
