New York City-based influencer, Susannah Hardwick, has shed light on the challenging and chaotic world of dating in the bustling metropolis, describing it as a ‘fever dream’ filled with ‘the most delusional, entitled men on the planet’. Originally from the U.K., Hardwick has taken to TikTok to share her dating escapades and offer support and advice to women navigating the treacherous waters of love in the city that never sleeps.
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In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, 27-year-old Hardwick revealed that one of the biggest hurdles she faces in the modern dating landscape is the phenomenon of ‘ghosting’. She explained, “Dating in New York City is a complete fever dream. You’re dealing with some of the most delusional, entitled men on the planet who will literally behave in the wildest ways.” She went on to recount how every week brought a new bizarre anecdote, leaving her constantly surprised by the unpredictable nature of dating in the city.
Hardwick turned to documenting her dating experiences online not only for entertainment but also as a form of empowerment for women to speak up against unacceptable behaviour. Recalling a particularly cringe-worthy incident where she was stood up on a date and was informed by the man’s assistant that it wasn’t going to work out because she wasn’t his ‘type’, Hardwick highlighted the absurdity and lack of accountability prevalent in some dating encounters.
The influencer also shed light on the trend of ‘love bombing’ in modern dating, where individuals shower their romantic interests with excessive praise and affection only to disappear without a trace shortly after. Despite learning to recognise the signs of insincerity, Hardwick admitted that her inner romantic often falls prey to false promises, illustrating the emotional rollercoaster many face when trying to navigate the complexities of dating in the digital age.
Discussing the pervasive culture of ghosting, Hardwick lamented how dating apps have contributed to an abundance mindset among men, leading to a lack of commitment and frequent disappearing acts. She noted that many men prefer to ghost rather than engage in uncomfortable conversations, keeping the door open for potential future encounters while causing emotional distress to those left in the dark.
While Hardwick has encountered her fair share of disappointments in the digital dating realm, she remains optimistic about the prospect of meeting someone organically. Recounting quirky ‘meet-cutes’ that provided fleeting moments of hope amidst a sea of disappointments, she emphasised the growing desire for genuine connections and real-life interactions in a landscape dominated by virtual encounters.
Despite her reservations about organised singles’ events, Hardwick acknowledged the shifting dynamics of dating in New York City, where young people seek alternative avenues to meet potential partners beyond the confines of dating apps. Expressing her belief that true connections often occur serendipitously, she highlighted the importance of authenticity and spontaneity in forging meaningful relationships.
Through her candid online content, Hardwick hopes to raise awareness about the challenges of modern dating and prompt men to reflect on their behaviour towards women. While facing occasional backlash from men who feel called out by her commentary, she remains steadfast in her mission to advocate for respect and accountability in the dating sphere, all while maintaining a sense of humour and resilience in the face of adversity.
As she continues her quest for love in the concrete jungle of New York City, Susannah Hardwick’s unwavering perseverance and candid storytelling serve as a beacon of empowerment and solidarity for women navigating the complexities of modern romance. Her willingness to share the highs and lows of her dating journey resonates with many, offering a candid glimpse into the tumultuous world of love, heartbreak, and hope in the digital age.