Flirting - do we do enough of it?

Thoughtful compliments, playful jokes, shared touches, and shy glances. To me, flirting is an art form that adds a rush of nervousness and excitement into our lives. For my own peace of mind, I am convincing myself that chivalry is not quite dead *yet*. However, it’s definitely on its way out. It feels as though ‘the chase’ is no longer a thing, and more often than not, flirting is prevalent *until* the relationship begins; once two people start dating, they start to see flirting as unnecessary – but why?

I think a significantly contributing factor to the lack of flirting in today’s day and age is down to the digital shift in modern society. Texting, social media, and dating apps have made it much easier to connect with people, sure, but online messages simply cannot replace the feelings involved during in-person flirtation. Where on the internet can you find coy eye-contact with a stranger from across the room, constant glimpses back to one another whilst exchanging soft blushes and smiles? Nowhere. Flirting online consists of mindlessly swiping on strangers’ profiles, and gross pickup lines, stripping away the magic of mystery and spontaneity that flirting in-person has. Yes, you heard me right, your pickup lines that can be considered borderline sexual harassment are not cute.

As well, while many people have a strategic drink or two to help them build confidence to be more flirtatious – which is completely okay – alcohol can often disrupt the charm of genuine flirting. Too much alcohol can quickly turn something light-hearted and harmless into something overtly forward and uncomfortable. Flirting is about forming a connection with another person through mutual interest, and alcohol can tend to blur one’s attention and ruin the experience for the other party. I think, whilst alcohol to an extent is understandable, it’s important to make sure flirtatious exchanges are respectful, memorable, and meaningful for those involved.

We also live in a much more evolved society than ever before, which is crucial to remember. Social norms are far different as to how they were many years ago and, whilst this is essential towards creating a more respectful and safer environment for people, it can lead to a hesitation surrounding flirting. Being cautious that well-intended flirting can be taken the wrong way is a completely understandable worry. I think the best way to go about this concern is to respect people’s boundaries and appreciate that no means no; if someone is making it obvious that they are uninterested for whatever reason, then you must simply move on.

Flirting – I don’t believe we do enough of it. There are many factors that explain why this is, but I think people should still be more adventurous. Some rejection therapy could actually be good for some of you.