6 fears about dating that every normal person has (and how to overcome them)

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Does the idea of ??dating make you anxious? If so, you're not alone. Romantic dating isn't easy. The fears that accompany it often lead people to withdraw and remain single. Dating even prevents many people from taking important steps in a relationship, even falling in love.

However, if you truly love someone, you shouldn't let fear control your actions. Facing your fear is the only way to overcome it. Here's how.

1. Fear of embarrassing situations

Maybe you're scared of the idea of ??approaching the person you like because you don't know how to start the conversation. Maybe you're afraid of being laughed at or that you won't be able to control what you say.

Solution: Calm your body's panic response. Practice slow, controlled breathing; a technique also suggested by studies on anxiety treatment. This helps calm your mind and heart. When you feel calmer, you can have a normal conversation without embarrassment.

2. Fear of rejection

Rejection is painful and the consequences are unpleasant. This fear prevents you from asking for a date. Negative thoughts that arise may include the fear that others will make fun of you if you get a “no” for an answer.

The solution: Build your self-esteem. Low self-esteem makes you feel bad about expressing your feelings and makes it difficult to cope with rejection. Remember that life goes on even after a "no." You can minimize the risk by approaching single people, trying online dating , or asking a friend for help in getting to know someone.

3. Fear of intimacy

Many people fear intimacy due to past trauma, but sometimes also due to personal beliefs. This phenomenon is known as sarmasophobia and affects the ability to enter into close or physical relationships.

The solution: If you feel intimidated by intimacy, it's perfectly okay to seek professional help. Talk to a doctor about birth control methods if you're not ready for pregnancy. If you have strong beliefs about intimacy and your partner doesn't respect them, it might be best to wait until marriage. Get emotionally close to your partner and start breaking down the mental barriers you've built.

4. Fear of commitment

Fear of responsibility for someone else's needs can lead you to avoid relationships. You may not trust your own judgment about the person you like.

The solution: Open your heart and share these thoughts with your partner. Accept that if you don't take risks for love, you may end up alone. Leave your fear behind and commit to someone you feel emotionally connected to.

5. Fear of abandonment

Some people avoid dating because of fears of what might happen later. These insecurities prevent them from starting a relationship. For example, women looking for a long-term relationship may avoid first dates simply because they are afraid that “it won’t work out.”

Solution: Accept that no one can predict the future. Do your part to keep the relationship alive and let the rest happen naturally. Talk about your fears with a trusted person. If the problem is deeper, consider seeking help from a therapist.

6. Fear of the "soulmate" myth

The myth that there is only one "soulmate" prevents many people from entering into a relationship. You may be afraid that the person you like is not the right one. Or you may be afraid that you will make a mistake that will push "the right one" away.

The solution: As psychologist Dr. Michael Arn says, forget the myth. There are plenty of people out there who are right for you. But to get to know them, you have to start dating.

Don't let fears rob you of a fulfilling life. They steal your chance for happiness and lead you down a path of self-criticism that is not healthy. Remember: fears are just fears. Face them and use these tips to overcome them so you can start dating and loving without shame. :)