Left on read? How to tell if they are about to ghost you

In an age of instant connection, it seems an equal number of relationships are ending just as quickly, and often without a word. New data says that 75% of singles surveyed have experienced ghosting in the middle of a conversation or beginning of a relationship. With growing numbers, many have been left confused, anxious, and often never obtained closure. This experience is not limited to just one place. 

Numberbarn company also engaged in a survey and found that 56% of respondents confessed to ghosting someone in the last year and 68% reported being ghosted, often by more than one person. Ghosting is no longer simply the result of a bad date; it has become a culture.

So, how do you know if you’re about to get ghosted before it happens? Let’s decode the red flags, the why behind it, and what to do if it’s already creeping in 

Getting ghosted doesn’t define your value — it usually reflects someone’s lack of ability to communicate. (Credit: Freepik)

Why do people ghost?

The reason so many individuals ghost other people is because of the convenience of online dating and where the ghosters do not want to engage in a conversation that might be awkward, put them in an uncomfortable position, or have an emotional impact, so it is easier for some to just sort of disappear and go back to the new person. 

Another reason? Saving emotional energy. In today's fast-paced lifestyle when dating feels transactional to many, ghosting is easier  to skip emotionally taxing conversations. Having a million other possibilities on dating apps has only exacerbated this dilemma. People are less motivated to work through minor annoyances and are more likely to habitually move on without explanation.

How to spot the signs before you are ghosted?

Although ghosting can feel sudden, however, the signs are just always present and there for you to spot. Here's how to see them before they happen:

- 'I'm seeing what my calendar is like', 'Perhaps next week' or other vague responses suggest that that person is investing minimal effort into the communication.

-  If they don't consistently respond to your communication with an appropriate timeframe, their interest is probably diminishing.

 - If someone's compliments, physical gestures, or other verbal affirmations do not match up with their actions, that person can be misleading.

- Last minute cancellations with vague statements or excuses, like, “I am sorry I have to cancel,” is often a precursor to full ghosting 

Although ghosting can feel sudden, however, the signs are just always present and there for you to spot. (Credit: Freepik)

 What should you do?

Getting ghosted doesn’t define your value — it usually reflects someone’s lack of ability to communicate. Being able to identify red flags early helps support your emotional health. Experts advise one to establish boundaries, calibrate your expectations, and prioritize reciprocity. If the communication feels one-sided or inconsistent, it's a sign to likely walk away sooner than later — before they ghost you.