Never chasing or over-functioning in dating again, and now I fear I'll never be pursued

I've always been considered attractive, but rarely pursued. When I have been, it's by men who seem to want a woman more attractive than them physically, or by narcissistic types. Neither works for me.

In most past relationships I was the one pursuing, especially within the relationship itself. I wasn't physically attracted to most of these partners but worked hard relationally, trying to communicate, build connection and passion.

This burned me out completely. I enabled disrespect, abuse and neglect, made excuses, tried to do the man's emotional work for him. Or tried to look past not being passionately attracted to partners I gave chances to.

Now that I refuse to do this anymore, I can't imagine a man I actually find attractive trying to build something real with me. Men barely put effort into texting, message forever without asking me out, waiting for a sign I'm invested before risking rejection. I will never provide that sign again before a man shows reliable interest first.

I'm 34 and a half. What comes next?

Posted Mar 14, 2026, 3:12 AM UTC

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