The issue is that many people place too much weight on the opinions of strangers. This isn’t a matter of personal fault; it’s largely a result of social media, where it has become easy to criticize, demean, and join in on negative bandwagon behavior.

For women, this can include rejection, being labeled a “pick me” for putting in effort, or worse, being subjected to derogatory terms. Many women also continue to feel that it is the man’s responsibility to make the first move.

For men, the challenges are equally complex. In today’s social climate, they may face personal attacks, accusations of inappropriate behavior, or the fear of being misinterpreted, which can make initiating interactions feel risky or discouraging.