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Nowadays, dating advice is everywhere. It’s all over the internet—you can find it on TikTok, IG Reels, YouTube, or just by Googling it, and bam! A flood of advice appears. You probably hear it from family and friends too, maybe even from people you hardly know.

Here’s the thing: just because someone puts dating advice out there doesn’t mean it’s worth following, even if they mean well. If you’re inexperienced or vulnerable, it’s natural to trust someone who seems to know more. But remember, every one of us is in a unique situation, dealing with different human beings. What worked for someone else might not work for you.

So, before you take any dating advice, think long and hard about whether it actually makes sense for your life. Some of the advice out there is truly awful—it can do more harm than good. Sure, it’s important to be open-minded and listen to those who have your best interests at heart, but you don’t have to act on everything you hear. At the end of the day, you’re the only one in your shoes. Other people don’t always know or understand your life situation. That’s why trusting your instincts is key.

Here are some of the worst pieces of dating advice I’ll never follow:

“Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket.”

Okay, cool. But thanks, no thanks!

I get that this advice is about keeping your options open. However, here’s the thing—I wouldn’t want to be just an “option” for someone else, so why would I treat others that way? I am a whole person with a lot of love to give, and I expect the same in return. I’ve never been good at dating multiple people at once, no matter how many chances I’ve had.

When I genuinely like someone and feel the same energy in return, that’s all I need. I focus on that person until I’m sure it won’t work out. Only then do I move on. But with dating apps and social media making it so easy to swipe for “someone better,” people are constantly searching, never satisfied. It’s a never-ending cycle that doesn’t align with my values. When I choose someone, I commit fully. My priority is to build something meaningful, not juggle multiple options.

“Don’t Text Back Right Away” or “Don’t Text First”

I don’t play these silly mind games. I’m too old for that now.

If I like someone, I’ll text them. If I don’t, I won’t. It’s that simple. I refuse to overanalyse response times or hold back just to seem less available.

If he texts me, I’ll respond as soon as I read it, no matter how busy I am. He can double text, triple text—I don’t care. If he’s important to me, he has my attention. Likewise, I have no problem texting first. I’ll send memes, share random thoughts, and make jokes. It’s very straightforward. I don’t hide my interest.

But if he plays games—going hot and cold, being inconsistent—I lose interest fast. I don’t chase, I don’t overthink, and I certainly don’t waste my time on someone who isn’t showing up for me. Some people thrive on the push-and-pull dynamic. Not me. Never have, never will.

“Age Is the Same Thing as Maturity.”

I’ve dated younger, and I’ve dated much older. Trust me—age does not equal maturity.

Maturity is shaped by life experiences, personal growth, and even privilege. Just like skills and hobbies, emotional maturity is developed over time, not magically granted at a certain age.

I’ve met older men who lacked self-awareness and emotional intelligence, and I’ve met younger guys who were surprisingly mature, responsible, and accomplished. So no, I don’t buy into the idea that someone is automatically more mature just because they’re older. It depends on the person, their experiences, and their mindset.

“Play Hard to Get” or “Act Like You Don’t Care.”

Another mind game. No thanks.

Some dating advice suggests that women should act disinterested to attract men—because apparently, men love a challenge.

To me, that’s nonsense. The best approach is to show genuine interest while maintaining high standards. You don’t need to act desperate, but you also shouldn’t pretend not to care. Playing hard to get can send the message that you’re uninterested, and honestly, would you keep pursuing someone who ignores you?

If you like someone, let them know. Be upfront. Flirt a little. Send them a funny joke. Trust your intuition, not your insecurity.

“Everyone Is Fair Game Until They’re Married.”

I’ve seen way too many people disregard relationships and pursue someone who’s already taken. It’s messy, it’s selfish, and I want no part of it.

If you want a healthy relationship, you need to respect other people’s commitments—whether they’re married, engaged, or in a serious relationship. Affairs and emotional cheating cause deep wounds, break trust, and hurt everyone involved. Integrity matters.

“Lower Your Standards.”

Been there, done that. Never again.

Lowering my standards led to some of the worst dating experiences of my life. I’ve learnt my lesson, and I won’t settle again.

Having high standards doesn’t mean I expect a handsome billionaire with six-pack abs. My standards are about values, compatibility, and emotional intelligence. I want someone who aligns with my principles, treats me with kindness, and is genuinely compatible with me. If I don’t hold myself to higher standards, how will I ever find someone worth committing to?

“Make Him/Her Jealous.”

In other words, act like a child.

A little natural jealousy is normal in relationships, but purposely trying to make someone jealous? That’s manipulative and toxic. It might grab their attention initially, but eventually, they’ll see through the immaturity. Healthy relationships are built on trust, not insecurity games.

“Be Your Best Self.”

I get the intention behind this advice, but here’s the reality: you want someone to love and accept you for who you truly are, not for some idealised version of yourself.

We’re all imperfect and have flaws. Always show who you truly are at all times—not just your best self. You might probably think that you will scare him off, but trust me, it’s best because at least he knows what you look like at your worst or your most extreme. Do you get it? Both of you can communicate about it, make compromises, and fix what you can for the relationship. Remember that, in the end, we all just want someone who chooses us over everyone else, under any circumstances—not someone who only chooses us at our best and leaves us at our worst.  🙂

X. Hani.