Why Is Dating So Difficult for Guys? An In Depth Look
In this article, we’re tackling one of the biggest questions that you might be wondering about the world of dating – why is it so hard? While this is certainly a loaded question and one that has many different answers, there are a few things we can definitely point to, and there are also ways you can make this difficult topic a bit easier on yourself. In this article, we’re helping you navigate the tricky world of dating!
Dating These Days
There’s no question that dating nowadays is different than ever before. With all the advancements in technology and all the different ways to communicate with each other these days, it can all get a bit overwhelming. From texting to email to all the various social media apps (not to mention all the online dating apps!), it can seem like too much to keep track of.
This has led some to believe that dating is harder than ever before, especially for guys! So, if you’re a guy that is reaching the end of their patience with the dating world, we’re here for you!
We’re going to outline why dating is so hard, and also give you tips for navigating this tough world! After all, at the end of the day, all anyone wants is to connect with someone! It’s all just roundabout ways of reaching the same goal.
While you read this article, remember, keep it simple! There’s no need to overly stress about all the things about dating that are outside your control. Instead, focus on the things that are within your control, and we’ll cover those within this article.
Is Dating Harder for Guys?
Dating is hard. But is it actually harder for guys? The answer is really that it depends. Dating can be pretty hard in general, and the individual challenges can be pretty unique to everyone. So, while it may not necessarily be harder for any one group of people, there are definitely some unique challenges that everyone might need to consider.
Guys might have those “traditional” expectations of dating that could apply to each date, but those don’t always apply as strongly as in the past.
Next up, we’re going to take an in-depth look at what makes dating so hard! Throughout the list, we’ll also offer insights and tips so that you don’t have to feel the burden of all these challenges. Sometimes, by evaluating the problem, we can find the solution. We’re going to look at all the challenges so that you might not feel so overwhelmed.
What Makes Dating Hard in 2020?
You’re Putting Yourself Out There
First of all, the challenges that apply to dating now are much the same as the challenges that have always applied to the dating scene. The fact is that it can simply be a tough social situation.
You’re really putting yourself out there, getting to know a new person that you really want to impress, and facing the challenges of making an excellent first impression all at once in the dating market. It’s a lot! This situation can be very stressful for a lot of people, and it’s understandable.
Just remember that sometimes the tendency to overthink these situations can be quite strong. Sometimes keeping it simple can be the right approach. All you have to do is focus on being nice, honest, and engaged. That’s all anyone can really expect from a good date, and most of it might just involve being the person you already know how to be.
So Many Different Apps!
Here’s a pretty unique situation to our overly connected world of today. Dating in 2020 is so difficult simply because there are so many different apps and online tools for dating! It can all get a little bit confusing and overwhelming.
From the big dating apps on your phone to the online matchmaking services, to everything in between, it can be difficult to even know where to start as a potential online dater. It might feel like you’re missing out, or even like you’re not dating the “right” way.
The “right” way of dating is just the way that you are comfortable with. Many people don’t use these dating apps out of personal preference, and many enjoy them. There’s nothing wrong with thinking either way.
Social Media Exposes Us to So Many “Perfect” Relationships
Another problem with current dating is that we are exposed to so many perfect relationships and so many perfect dates through social media. At least they appear perfect because they’re on social media!
The tendency is pretty big to compare ourselves to other people’s experiences, and that’s easier than ever now that they post all about their lives online. Dating is a big part of many people’s online presence, and it’s pretty easy to get swept up in all the hype.
It’s good to keep in mind that people aren’t necessarily honest about their lives online. There’s a reason they posted something after all! No one wants to post things that make them look bad. So, if you can, try not to compare yourself to others too much. Try to compare yourself to what you are doing instead.
…And Bad Relationships
And of course, good relationships aren’t the only thing we see. We also see the bad ones! From people posting about their personal struggles to their dating challenges to their bad date experiences! It’s pretty easy to become jaded toward dating in 2020, especially as a guy!
At this point, you can probably see why too much social media can be kind of unhealthy. If you can, try not to compare yourself so much to others, and try to remember that their experiences don’t have to represent your experiences. At the end of the day, all you have control over are your own actions anyway, so why worry?
“Hookup Culture”
Some have referred to modern dating as “hookup culture.” With the rise of “hookup” apps like Tinder and Bumble, dating has all seemed to have gotten pretty casual in modern times. Simply put, this can make some guys uncomfortable!
Some people just aren’t comfortable using these apps, and they don’t feel like they fit into modern dating. This can be a challenge, but you also have to remember that there are others out there who feel exactly like you.
If you aren’t into “hookup culture,” then you can date how you want! Maybe straying away from the big apps would be best for you. There are lots of other ways to meet people, including just by attending events that match your interests (how old fashioned!).
You’ve Been Hurt in the Past
A major reason that many people avoid dating, in general, is that they have been hurt in the past or are still reeling from experiences in past relationships. The simple fact is that dating and relationships are pretty personal things, and sometimes that can leave a lasting mark and affect your relationships going forward. This can make it pretty difficult to keep dating, especially if you are still hurt by something that happened before.
It’s difficult to give advice for these situations, as most of them are quite personal, and you have to do what is needed to get over your personal experiences. Just remember that many people feel this way, and it does get better for many people with time.
Everything is on the Internet
Of course, other people’s social media might not be the only problem. You might be worried about your own social media! With everything getting posted online these days, you might be worried about having a relationship in person and dealing with everything that gets posted online.
It can be a lot to think about when you might just want to have a simple date. The expectations of what to post on social media get a bit tricky in 2020, especially in the age where everyone seems to be posting about their relationships.
Just remember that social media is a personal preference, and you can use it however it makes you most comfortable. If you don’t want to post all about your dating life online, then you really don’t have to. Remember, many people don’t post about themselves online; you just don’t see it!
So Many Standards and Expectations
Another difficult thing about dating is all the “expectations” that you might feel (especially as a guy) from asking her out the right way to picking the perfect place, to being courteous, to being funny & interesting.
All the expectations that are placed on this first date can stack up into something quite overwhelming. We won’t lie either, there are a lot of expectations on a first date, and it is a way that the other person will form an opinion about you.
Just remember that it’s your opportunity too! Dates are simply a way of seeing if two people are compatible. And if they aren’t, then that’s totally fine. So, at the risk of sounding too cliché, try to be yourself. Nothing will allow you both to know if this is going to work out better than if you both are honest with each other. At the end of the day, it’s all you really know how to be anyways.
So don’t hold up a first date as some situation where you need to be perfect. You can never live up to that expectation anyways. If it doesn’t work out, that’s cool; there’s more people out there.
Getting Over Rejection
What about dealing with rejection before the date even starts. That’s right. We’re talking about the dreaded “no.” You put yourself out there, ask someone out, and they reject you! We’re not going to lie, it stings, but all you can really do is move on from it. After all, as we mentioned above, sometimes it just doesn’t work out. Dating isn’t meant to work out every time anyways.
Try to think of the bright side of this situation (yes, there actually are some). At least the person was honest with you. It was quick and easy, and now you can both move on. And you should be proud of yourself for putting yourself out there like that. It takes a courage that not everyone has, and it represents that you can do it again! Dating is all about forming relationships and seeing where those relationships go. Eventually, something will work out, but try not to stress too much when it doesn’t.
It Can Feel Like You Have to Make the Decisions
As a guy, there can be pressure and the expectation that you have to make all the decisions for the first date. From asking the girl out, to deciding where to go, to deciding what to do, and everything in between. It can feel like all the pressure is on you to make these choices, and that is a bit much for some guys!
To put it bluntly, this isn’t exactly true. We won’t lie, guys often do face a bit of added pressure to make the decisions on the first date, but that doesn’t mean that both sides can’t be involved.
In fact, first dates are often a lot better if you ask the other person about their preference and favorite things and incorporate those into the date. Not only does this take some of the pressure off you, but it increases the chance of you planning something that everyone will enjoy!
Where to Go? What to Do?
The classic first date question, what should we do? As we just mentioned, the guy can feel a bit pressured to make this decision. The best solution to this problem is to know about the other person’s interests before you plan the date.
Before you ask them out, you should have a conversation with them so that you know if you two are compatible at all! Ask them about their favorite things and ask them about what they like to do. Chances are, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for a first date if you know a bit about them!
The “New vs. Traditional” Norms
Dating has changed a lot in recent years. With all the different social media platforms, apps, and methods of communication that we mentioned above, it can be difficult to know if traditional dating standards even apply anymore. Yes, dating is different in 2020, but dating is constantly changing with the times!
What will never change is that dating is simply about two people trying to see whether they can connect. It really is that simple. If you are someone that the other person likes to be with and can feel a connection with, then no amount of dating standards can change that.
So, if you’re finding yourself too wrapped up in all the confusing standards as they apply to dating, just try not to think about it too much. Because if you act like a person that the other person wants to be around, that will do more for you than some archaic dating standard ever would!
Putting it all Together
Remember, dating really boils down to one thing, mutual attraction. At the end of the day, there’s no way to fake this. It’s really just about treating the other person with respect and hoping for the same in return.
All of the above tricky situations and predicaments we have outlined can really all be disregarded if you simply focus on being yourself, being courteous, and being engaged. That’s really all there is to it.
Just think of what you would expect from someone else on a first date. Those expectations aren’t unreasonably high, are they? Chances are the other person who feels the exact same way.
So, you can apply as many “standards” and expectations as you want, but at the end of the day, you have to be yourself and hope to find someone you can connect with this way. So keep it simple, be a nice person, be bold, and have confidence.
We know it’s easier said than done, and it’s not going to work out every time, but that’s just dating! It’s not supposed to work out every time. It’s supposed to be a way for two people to connect, and if they aren’t perfectly compatible, then that’s just life.
Try to lower the expectations a bit and take a bit of the pressure off yourself. The more pressure you put on yourself to be perfect, the less likely you can live up to it anyway!
Conclusion
Thanks so much for reading our guide on dating for guys! As you can see, there are factors that make dating a bit tricky for guys, but that’s just dating in general. There are also many reasons why you need not stress too much over any of these factors. We hope we have helped you work through some of these issues. Good luck on your next first date!
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Get 15% off using the discount code NEXTL at checkout
Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
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This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
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This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
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This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
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If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
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If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
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Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
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Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
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For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
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For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
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This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
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Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
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The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
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Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
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Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
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This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
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Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
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Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
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Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
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Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
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This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
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Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
