There is no shame in the game, but as someone who used Bumble and Hinge for several weeks, I can assure you that it’s not worth the phone storage. Dating apps are the epitome of why people have trust issues and why people don’t believe in love anymore. Therefore, to protect everyone’s virtuous hearts, here are five reasons to stop you from downloading a dating app. 

1. You’re seen as a Hook Up 

Honesty is important in a relationship, and this is why I am telling you that the majority of the time people just want to hook up. Somewhere along the way, dating apps became the modern-age version of going to find someone at a bar to take home. The problem with dating apps is that people don’t use them for the right reasons— so please don’t fall for those romantic pick-up lines. And if someone says “let’s go out at night,”  run for the hills! 

2. You Don’t Need Validation From Strangers 

Dating apps mess with your mindset, because instead of trying to find love, you just want to feel validated. According to The New York Times article, “Trying to Feel Love-Worthy (While Working for a Dating App),” women specifically would question if they are pretty and smart enough. You put yourself on this platform with thousands of users, and the expectation is to be praised to fulfill the love you want. Sometimes it’s discouraging to not get the attention you imagined you would get and it often lowers your self-esteem. Logging in to a dating app is just a toxic cycle, because you’re not looking for love but rather validation for your appearance. 

3. Stay Optimistic, Love Exists But Not Online 

The concept of a dating app is clever, but it demolishes the idea of “Old Fashion Love.” There may be a few lucky people who found their soulmates online, but love is not a swipe right or left— it’s the physical and emotional action of going out of your way to talk to that person. When love strikes, we should be appreciated for who we are, and not for being arm candy. 

4. Just Run Away, You Are Looking for Trouble

As a retired user of Bumble and Hinge, I can assure you that at least a quarter of the people have the audacity to cheat on their beautiful partner. Therefore, beware of all the red flags, because we filter our profile to attract the attention of the thousands of users. Ladies and gentlemen, if you see someone who should not be on the site, do everyone a favor and report them.

5. You will get bored and realize everyone is the same 

I’m not going to lie, dating apps are fun for about one or two weeks then they become boring. Many people, especially guys, use the same pick-up lines or just don’t know how to keep the connection going. You soon start to realize that there is no point in having a dating app. Also, you don’t always end up meeting them, and they are probably bored too trying to procrastinate their responsibilities. 

Although the majority of y’all are adults, take it from an ex-user, dating apps are not the place to find love. Instead, wear a mask and go on the streets to find your happily ever after.