Stalked: When Love Turns into a Creepy Game of Hide and Seek

Have you ever felt like someone was watching you? Like a bug-eyed ninja lurking in the shadows, ready to pounce on your every move? If so, congratulations! You might have been stalked! But don’t worry; you’re not alone! In a world where social media reigns supreme, being stalked has become the latest trend—much like avocado toast and mustache-wearing hipsters.

The New Age of Stalking

Stalking used to be the realm of horror movies and tabloid headlines. Now, it’s as common as finding an unwanted 5 a.m. text from an ex. Thanks to apps, social media, and an abundance of online platforms, stalking has evolved into a digital art form.

Let’s break it down:

1. Social Media Stalking: You know the drill. You meet someone online, and before you know it, you’re scrolling through their entire Instagram history—yes, even that awkward photo from 2011 where they thought side bangs were a good idea.
2. Profile Pic Prowling: Is there anything creepier than someone zooming in on your profile pic like it’s the Mona Lisa? We’ve all been there, and that’s the moment when you realize you’ve officially crossed the line from casual observer to certified stalker.
3. Location Tracking: With the introduction of GPS, stalkers can now follow you around like they're your personal paparazzi. If you ever see someone at the coffee shop who seems to know your order, you might want to check your privacy settings!

It’s All Fun and Games… Until It’s Not

Okay, let's be real – stalking can be entertaining… until it’s terrifying. Think of it as a thrilling rollercoaster ride: fun at first, but you might end up screaming for help midway through.

So how do you know when to call it quits? Here are some telltale signs:

• If they show up at your favorite taco joint every Tuesday without an invitation.
• If they know your dog’s name (and you don’t even have a dog).
• If they’ve created a Pinterest board dedicated to your daily outfits (that’s next-level stalker status).

How to Handle a Stalker

So you’ve come to the conclusion that you may be stalked? First things first, take a deep breath and avoid any knee-jerk reactions (like blocking them on all platforms). Instead, consider these options:

• Talk it Out: Sometimes, people just don’t know how to take a hint. A friendly chat can clear the air.
• Set Boundaries: Politely let them know your space is sacred. Think of it like telling someone they can't sit next to you in a crowded subway.
• Alert the Authorities: If things get out of hand, it’s essential to seek help and keep your safety in check.

Turning Stalking into Something Positive

You may have heard that every cloud has a silver lining. Well, consider this: If you’ve been stalked, you can channel that experience into a fantastic story. The next time you’re on a date, use it as an icebreaker! “So, one time I was stalked…”. Nothing like a little humor to ease the tension!

In all seriousness, stalking can be a serious issue. But we can tackle it with laughter and learning. Just remember, love should never feel like a creepy game of hide and seek!

Now, go forth, make connections, and remember: if someone’s stalking you, just block them on your dating app and move on to greener pastures (or more adorable avatars)!

Happy hunting!

Sophia Adams, Blog Writer, AntiLand Team