A dating expert has pushed back against viral dating advice, advocating for “clear communication” over the cliché “romcom” approach. The popular TikTok and Instagram tip, “If they wanted to, they would,” suggests that genuine interest always leads to proactive effort.
Divided Opinions on Viral Advice
The advice has split the internet. Some praise it as a reminder not to chase people who repeatedly fail to show up, while others warn it oversimplifies human behaviour.
Expert's Verdict: Honest Conversations
Speaking to the Daily Star, PURE dating expert Avril Louise Clark said “having real, honest conversations” is better than the “limbo” the trend creates. She described the phrase as “a modern echo of the classic romcom, He's Just Not That Into You.”
Clark, who has a background in sexology, said the core message is about “personal responsibility” – communicating desires and interests rather than waiting for mind-reading or hoping ambiguity resolves itself. She added that being honest from the start and connecting with those who share your values reduces the chance of ending up in that “limbo.”
She concluded: “If someone repeatedly fails to show up, the best course of action is having real, honest conversations.”
