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Love in the Time of Glitches

Why dating apps frustrate us and what they reveal about modern romance

Thabang Morudi
February 19, 2025
5 min read

When Tech Fails in the Quest for Connection

Modern dating apps promise the spark of romance at a swipe. But for many professionals juggling careers and social lives, these platforms often deliver something else: the frustration of glitches that interrupt the search for love.

From unexpected crashes to account lockouts and endless verification loops, technical issues aren’t just minor annoyances—they complicate an already delicate journey. When an app locks you out or freezes during a promising chat, it’s not just inconvenient. It chips away at patience, making the process feel more like a chore than a discovery.

"These tech hiccups feel like roadblocks in a path that’s meant to lead to something beautiful."

Such frustrations are enough to make many pause or even quit. Yet, despite these obstacles, a hopeful spirit remains. Many continue to believe that meaningful connection is not just possible, but worth the effort.


The Limitations of a Screen: Appearance Over Context

Dating apps are visual by design. Profiles highlight photos; a quick glance can decide attraction or dismissal.

But that focus on appearance comes at a cost.

  • Social context is missing. We don’t see how someone laughs, how they interact with waiters, or how their eyes meet ours when they’re telling a story.
  • In-person meetings still matter more than ever, yet their frequency declines as digital connections climb.

This creates a paradox: the more we rely on apps, the more we lose subtle signals that flesh out real attraction and compatibility.

💡 Tip: Use dating apps as a starting point, not the whole story. Prioritise moving to face-to-face meetings when safe and possible.


The Changing Landscape of Romance

Society’s trends show a decline in spontaneous, in-the-moment dating. Apps offer convenience but also complexity.

Users often report:

  • Taking breaks from apps when overwhelmed
  • Feeling disillusioned by repeated glitches or shallow matches
  • Yet returning with optimism, driven by the hope of genuine connection

The digital dance of swipes, messages, and pauses reflects the push and pull many feel between technology and traditional romance.

"It's not just about finding someone; it's about navigating a new, imperfect landscape of love."


Embracing the Journey With Patience and Purpose

For busy professionals in South Africa, romance is a balancing act. Between work demands and limited free time, every minute counts. When dating apps glitch or feel superficial, it’s easy to step back and lose momentum.

But this journey demands patience and perseverance.

  • Focus on platforms that value respectful communication and safety.
  • Remember that every technical glitch is temporary; the right connection is worth navigating the bumps.
  • Embrace the moments offline—they remind us why we seek love beyond a screen.

Boardroom understands this delicate balance. Our platform is designed to respect your time, nurture meaningful connections, and reduce the friction that often derails digital romance.

💡 Tip: If the app experience becomes overwhelming, schedule a break and return refreshed. Love is a marathon, not a sprint.


In the end, love in the time of glitches is about resilience. It’s the willingness to keep searching, keep believing, and keep trying. Because the right connection, when it happens, feels worth every digital and real-world effort.

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