Somewhere between trying to be a functioning adult, answering emails that start with “just circling back,” and figuring out if we actually like oat milk or if we’re just used to it now… dating has become a weird little side quest. One that often starts strong, fizzles out with a few half-replies, and ends with someone saying: “Sorry, I’ve just been sooo busy.”

At first, I gave it the benefit of the doubt. We all have jobs, schedules, group chats that never sleep, and nights where we’re too mentally exhausted to even open Instagram, let alone make small talk with someone we’re not even sure we like yet.

But then I realized… everyone’s busy. And the right people still make time.

So moving forward, “I’m busy” is no longer an excuse I’m accepting. Not because I expect constant attention or daily dates, but because I’ve reached the point in my life where I’d rather someone be upfront than stretch out a half-hearted situationship for three months.

Being busy isn’t the problem. Feeling like a low priority is.

When someone tells you they’re too busy to reply, too busy to make plans, or too busy to show up even a little bit — what they really mean is this just isn’t a priority right now. And that’s okay! People are allowed to feel that way.

But I’ve decided I no longer want to be the one sitting around trying to decode mixed signals when I could be doing literally anything else. Watching Mamma Mia again. Making sourdough. Going on a walk to nowhere with a really good playlist. Texting someone who does make an effort.

I’m done entertaining:

• The “We should hang soon” message that floats into the void
• Conversations that drag on with no purpose
• Last-minute “you up?” texts that feel like a plan C
• People who somehow have time for their fantasy football league but not a 30-second reply

I am saying yes to:

• Consistency (doesn’t have to be intense, just thoughtful)
• Plans with dates and times, not vague vibes
• Someone who checks in even during busy weeks
• Feeling appreciated, not squeezed into someone’s leftover time

At the end of the day, dating in your 20s doesn’t need to be that complicated. If someone likes you, they’ll show you. And if they’re too busy for even the smallest bit of effort? That tells you everything you need to know.

We all deserve someone who chooses us with clarity—not convenience.

Life’s short. Text the guy back who actually makes dinner reservations.

Love, Laura