7 in 10 singles returning to their ex after finding grass isn’t greener on other side

By Astrid Cooper, 72Point via SWNS

Three quarters (7 in 10) singles admit they are returning to their ex after realizing the grass isn’t greener elsewhere.

A poll of 1,000 singletons revealed just how many will end a relationship - and immediately start dating only to realize the mistake they made and want to return to their ex.

This is known as "Ekin-sU turning," a phrase inspired by "Love Island" winners Davide and Ekin-Su.

More than half (51 percent) of these respondents referenced unresolved issues to be a reason for wanting to return to an old flame.

While half simply realized the error of their ways and 28 percent had "too much history" to let go entirely.

The research was commissioned by dating app Plenty of Fish to take a deeper dive into the newest dating behaviors to launch its annual dating trend predictions.

It also found 63 percent have rebounded following a break-up and ended up dating a younger, unexpected partner in cases of the "180-Dating" trend.

“Despite dating having been around since the dawn of humanity, our dating habits are hugely impacted by current affairs, technological advances and cultural trends, putting a whole new spin on age-old instincts," said relationship guru and script consultant on Netflix’s "Sex Education," Alix Fox.

“Whether it’s an economic recession, the latest TikTok trends, environmental concerns causing greener mindsets or celebrity affairs making headlines, the ways we connect are ever changing.

“One piece of advice to singles that’s consistently helpful is to be authentic and honest - with yourself as well as others - to allow for a more low-pressure dating experience.”

The study also found 74 percent of daters are "Bae Realing" and saying no to photo editing and filters on dating apps spurred on by recent social media trends.

Although 69 percent have used a photo filter on a picture when online dating in the past.

As many as 87 percent also admitted to having all the intention to go on dates, but not actually following through with meeting up, kicking off the "OnlyPlans" trend.

The research also revealed the criteria singles have curated when looking for love, where 39 percent want someone who is family-orientated and 28 percent look for someone with a sense of humor.

However, 39 percent are "Eco-Dumping," saying they would only date someone with a keen interest in the environment, with their physical appearance only being a key attribute for 23 percent.

And only seven percent care about their potential suitor’s profession.

The study, conducted via OnePoll, also found 23 percent reckon online and virtual dating will surpass in-person dating in the next 10 years.

While 46 percent of singles are open to a virtual reality date before meeting someone in real life.

It also emerged 52 percent are being impacted by the rising cost of living and opting for cheaper dates over spoiling a new love interest.

And 73 percent are avoiding or cancelling plans with a potential partner due to the cost of a date, resulting in the "Cost of Loving."

Kate MacLean, resident dating expert at Plenty of Fish, said: “Our dating lives are impacted by the world around us, from the reality TV shows we watch to more serious environmental issues.

“We want dating to feel more natural, and that’s why it’s great to see the rise of people embracing their true, authentic selves with Bae Realing or giving loved ones a second chance by Ekin-sU Turning."

A full list of the dating trends can be found here.

ALIX FOX'S DATING TIPS:

1. Swap the "meet cute" for the "greet cute."
   Meeting on dating on apps rather than a chance encounter doesn’t mean you can’t still make a memorably novel and authentic introduction. Try opening on an uplifting note by sharing a few things that made you smile or laugh this week and inviting your match to share theirs.
2. Don’t get stuck, stack instead!
   Suggest a short first date to start with, like an after-work drink, then if it’s going well, you can always stack on dinner or dancing to extend it. Brainstorm your stacking options in advance so you know nearby spots if it goes well.
3. Don’t date yourself into debt.
   Cheaper dates - like rocking up with a flask of hot mulled wine to go stargazing – can be original and romantic. Remove the pressure of having to spend by being upfront.
4. Practice mindful inter-app-tion.
   It’s tempting to log into dating apps whenever you have a spare second during commutes, in the lift, even in the loo. But if you’re swiping while you’re rushed or distracted you might miss promising matches. Try making dedicated time each day/week to enter dating apps with the mindset that you’re intrigued to carefully consider interesting people and engage in satisfying conversations.
5. Welcome in The Sincerer Era!
   Yes, you want to “show your best side” on dating apps, but you also want to attract matches who’ll be into the whole, true you. The closer your online profile is to the real-world person you are, the closer you are to finding a real connection.