If you've ever bonded with someone over your mutual hatred of raisins in cookies or the agony of slow walkers, congrats—you’ve already dipped your toe into the latest dating trend: Grim Keeping.
Wait... Grim What?
Grim Keeping is all about connecting through shared dislikes instead of common interests. Think less “we both love sushi” and more “we both loathe loud chewers.” It’s a little snarky, a little cathartic, and surprisingly... romantic?
Dating experts say that being honest about what drives you nuts can actually strengthen emotional bonds. Why? Because it’s real. It’s vulnerable. And let’s be honest—nothing feels better than finding someone who rolls their eyes at the same stuff you do.
Why It Works
- It’s emotionally honest. You’re not pretending to love hiking or indie jazz just to impress.
- It builds trust. Sharing pet peeves can feel intimate—like you’re letting someone into your inner world.
- It’s fun. Laughing over shared annoyances is a great icebreaker.
Plus, it’s a refreshing break from the pressure to be endlessly positive and agreeable. Grim Keeping says, “Hey, let’s be real. Life’s messy. People chew loudly. Raisins ruin cookies. Let’s bond over that.”
How to Try It
Next time you're on a date, skip the “what do you do for fun?” and ask, “What’s something that irrationally annoys you?” You might be surprised how quickly the conversation gets real—and how much fun it is.
So go ahead, embrace the grim. Your next great love might be hiding behind a shared hatred of group texts or mismatched socks.
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