4 Dating Myths You Need to Forget to Find Love

Dating can feel confusing, and many of us are still trying to figure it out. If you want better results in your love life, you might need to let go of some common myths. Here are four dating beliefs that could be holding you back.

1. If You Don’t Feel a Spark Right Away, It Won’t Happen

A lot of people expect instant chemistry on the first date. If they don’t feel it, they move on. But sometimes, connection takes time to grow.

Building trust, comfort, and real attraction often happens slowly. Someone might seem nervous, awkward, or not their best self at first. If there aren’t big red flags, try giving things another chance. Real chemistry can grow with time.

2. There’s Only One Person Out There for You

The idea of a soulmate sounds romantic, but believing in just one perfect person can set you up for disappointment.

As relationship experts Esther Perel and Mary Alice Miller explain, no one can meet all of our needs or magically fix everything. Love starts as a feeling, but it becomes a choice and commitment over time. There are many people you could build a great life with—the key is who you choose to invest in and grow with.

3. Dating Always Has to Lead to Marriage

It’s okay if marriage is your goal, but that doesn’t mean every relationship that doesn’t end in “forever” was a waste.

Every person you date can bring lessons, growth, and memories—even if they’re not “the one.” Some people come into your life for a short season, others for a lifetime, and both experiences have value.

When you stop dating only to find “the one,” you open yourself up to more genuine and meaningful connections.

4. The More You Give, the More You’ll Get

Many people believe that if they give and sacrifice more, they’ll finally be loved in return. But usually, this just leads to feeling unappreciated.

That doesn’t mean you should stop caring or become distant. It just means you need to take care of yourself first. Don’t give so much that you lose yourself or hope someone will “choose” you because of it. Love isn’t something you earn—it’s something you build together.