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Left on Read: Why “Ghosting” Hurts and How to Deal With It

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Joh, Chommie. Imagine you having a deep chats with someone and they know all your deepest deets, and then one day you message them and... blue ticks. Radio silence. Not even a "k," or "ja"—just dust. We all know that's the most painful, and let's be real, embarrassing feeling. It’s a mind game that nobody signed up for.

What does it mean? Unfortunately, you may have just been ghosted, Sis. And it's a new way in the age of the instant message that people just up and leave the chat - no announcement. And yes, it's kinda common.

If this has happened to you, best believe you’re not alone. Being ghosted can leave you feeling confused, hurt, and questioning your worth. But let’s be clear, Chommie—someone else’s bad communication habits are not a reflection of you.

So, let’s unpack this thing (and talk about how to deal if someone goes ghost on you).

Why Does Ghosting Hurt So Much?

One thing, chom - before we get into the hurt it can cause, know that ghosting isn't just about romantic relationships. It can be used for friendship, family members, and anyone you were communicating with that just says 'nah' and stops replying. It can all feel kinda hectic,!

Ghosting isn’t just about a person that you care about not replying to you—it’s about the message it DOES send, you know?

It feels like rejection without explanation. And as humans, we like to know why—why did they stop talking? Did I do something wrong? Were they ever even real with me? It messes with your head!

We all love one thing: Closure!

Also, social media makes things worse. Sjoe; you see them active online, posting stories, living their best life, while you’re sitting there wondering if they just forgot how to type.

Why Do People Ghost?

Look, ghosting says more about the ghost than the ghosted. Unless you know you were acting shady or being dodgy, then no questions needed neh? (Pull yourself towards yourself, chile"). But if there was no reason for them to block you or disappear, then it could be for a bunch of reasons that have niks to do with you, babes.

While none of them excuses their behaviour, understanding them can help you stop taking it personally:

  • Fear of confrontation: Some people would rather avoid an awkward conversation than be upfront.
  • Lost interest: Maybe they just weren't feeling you anymore. Eina - Askies chom. Instead of keeping it real, they just left.
  • Emotional immaturity: People who aren’t emotionally ready for hard conversations tend to dip when things get deep.
  • Personal struggles: Sometimes, it has nothing to do with you. They might be dealing with their own mess and don’t know how to communicate it.

How to Deal With Being Ghosted Like the Baddie You Are

1. Don’t Chase a Ghost

The hardest but most necessary step? Resist the urge to double-text. Yoh, that’s way too thirsty—you don’t wanna be known for that, hey!

If someone disappears, let them. You deserve mutual effort, not one-sided stress. If they wanted to be in your life, they would be.

2. Feel Your Feelings (All are valid)

Pretending you’re fine when you’re not? That’s a no from Big Sis. It’s okay to feel rejected, sad, or even angry. Journal about it, rant to your bestie or scream into your pillow. Whatever helps you process—do it.

3. No, It’s Not About You

Read that again. Then read it one more time. Someone ghosting you is about them, not you. Their actions don’t define your worth. If anything, you dodged a bullet because who wants to be with someone who can’t even communicate? Ew.

4. Glow Up, Don’t Slow Up

Ghosting can shake your confidence, but here’s the fix: pour into yourself.Gassing yourself up with positive vibes is the way to go, chom!Tell yourself that ‘Good things await me", " I am beautiful. I am loved. I am strong" . Hit the gym, learn something new, revamp your style—whatever makes you feel like you again. Confidence is the best clapback, babes.

5. Keep That Same Energy

If they pop up later with a “Hey stranger” text? Nah, babes. We don’t do that here. People who ghost you once will do it again. Keep your standards high and your energy protected.

When to Reach Out vs. When to Let Go

Sometimes, life happens. If someone you care about has gone quiet, and you’re worried, a quick check-in message won’t hurt. Something like:

“Hey, I noticed we haven’t spoken in a while. Hope you’re good. Let me know if you wanna chat.”

But if they still don’t respond? That’s your answer. Let. Them. Go.

Chommie, at the end of the day, ghosting sucks, but it’s not the end of your story. It’s just proof that some people aren’t meant to stay in your life.

Keep your head high.

The right people will always match your energy.

Hit me up - I always reply!

Big Sis