Relationship Advice

When He’s Not Taking It to the Next Level: Why You Can’t Wait Forever

By Amy Andersen, Founder and CEO of Linx Dating

You’ve invested your heart.
You’ve made space in your life.
You’ve been patient. Understanding. Loyal.

But still—he hasn’t made a move.

Not toward exclusivity.
Not toward engagement.
Or worse… he proposed, and now the engagement lingers indefinitely.

At Linx, we work with exceptional women—smart, successful, emotionally generous—who want to build lives with someone extraordinary. And far too often, we meet them after they’ve spent months… even years… waiting for a man to “be ready.”

Here’s the truth: you can’t build a future with someone stuck in the pause.

1. If It Feels Like Limbo, It Is

A relationship should feel like forward motion—not a holding pattern. If you’re constantly wondering when he’ll step up, commit, or get serious, chances are… he won’t. Not because you aren’t worthy, but because he isn’t ready. Or worse, he’s comfortable—right where things are.

2. Words Are Easy. Watch His Pattern.

He says he wants a future. He talks about “someday.” But when it comes time to make plans, take steps, or define the relationship—he freezes.

A man’s actions tell you everything. If his pattern is avoidance, deflection, or procrastination, then you’re not his priority. You’re his safety net.

3. Engaged… But Not Advancing? That’s a Message.

We often romanticize engagements—but forget they’re meant to lead somewhere. If a man proposes but then resists planning, avoids conversations about marriage, or seems indifferent to timelines… that’s not “taking things slow.” That’s avoidance wrapped in sentiment.

You’re not “pressuring” someone by wanting to move forward. You’re honoring your life.

4. He’s Not Confused. He’s Comfortable.

This is the hardest truth:
A man who truly wants to be with you will not stay confused for years.

“Not ready” often translates to “not willing to change.”
And as long as you continue to give him everything—your support, your time, your heart—without requiring him to meet you where you are, he’ll stay comfortable. Because comfort costs him nothing.

5. You’re Not Asking for Too Much. You’re Asking the Wrong Person.

There is nothing unreasonable about wanting commitment, momentum, or clarity.
There is nothing “difficult” about setting standards.

The right man will feel inspired by your vision—not threatened.
The right man will move forward—not drag his feet.

Final Thought: You Can Leave the Waiting Room

The next level doesn’t come from nudging, begging, or outlasting his doubts. It comes from choosing yourself. From honoring your time, your value, and your desire to build a life that moves with intention.

If he won’t meet you there, step out of the waiting room.

Because the right partner?
He’s not hesitant.
He’s ready—and already walking your way.

Does Who You Follow on Social Media Matter?

By Caroline Novia for Linx Dating

This topic has been coming up a lot lately, and for good reason. It’s more important than you might think.

For many, following someone new on Instagram is an action we don’t think twice about. That one click feels routine. We might like the way they dress, the resources they share, or simply what they’re posting. I value my social media for a few reasons: it brings me closer to the people I love, bridges the gap to friends who live far away, and serves as an informational resource where I’ve learned a lot about a wide range of topics.

Here’s the thing: who you follow *does* matter. In the world of dating, many factors come into play, and in 2025, social media is undeniably one of them. If a woman goes on a date with someone, things go well, and then he follows her, she’s likely going to then look at whom he’s following.

Who people follow often gives insight into their interests and what sparks their attention. Following women or men who post overly suggestive or provocative content can sometimes send mixed signals, especially if you’re looking for a committed relationship or are trying to foster meaningful connections. It’s important to consider how this aligns with your values, your relationship goals, and the type of dynamic you want to build with a partner.

While you might not even be giving a second thought to whom you follow, it’s important to understand how it might make your date or potential partner feel. Take a moment to review and consider whom you follow and what they represent. Call it a social media reset—curate the energy you want to attract in your dating life this year and beyond.

Startups Aren’t the Only Things Scaling in Silicon Valley—So Is Love

By Amy Andersen, Founder and CEO of Linx Dating

In today’s fast-moving global economy, Silicon Valley stands as more than a beacon of innovation—it’s a magnetic hub of influence, culture, and connection. It's where the world’s most visionary minds come not only to launch billion-dollar ideas but increasingly, to build something just as powerful: a deeply meaningful personal life.

At Linx Dating, we’ve long believed that love and leadership are not mutually exclusive—in fact, the most enduring relationships are often built on the same foundation as the most successful ventures: intention, integrity, and alignment.

Silicon Valley: More Than Just a Tech Capital

This region attracts some of the brightest and most entrepreneurial minds on the planet. Executives, engineers, founders, and financiers from across the globe come here with bold ideas and bold ambitions. But alongside the pursuit of innovation lies a quieter, more personal question:

How do I create a love life that’s just as intentional as my career?

That’s where Linx comes in.

The Global Appeal of Linx Dating

Our clientele isn’t just local—it’s deeply global. From Singapore to Stockholm, Dubai to Dublin, individuals seek us out because they want a partner who truly understands their world. They’re not swiping on apps or chasing superficial chemistry. They’re looking for someone who aligns with their values, mirrors their ambition, and thrives within the rarefied orbit they inhabit.

At Linx, we specialize in connecting high-caliber individuals across borders and cultures—always with discretion, precision, and a personal touch that technology alone can never provide.

Why Silicon Valley Matters in Love

What makes Silicon Valley unique isn’t just the innovation—it’s the ethos. There’s a quiet confidence here. An emphasis on intellect over ego. A preference for substance over flash. These qualities make the region not just a powerhouse in business, but also a deeply fertile ground for authentic, lasting connection.

Our approach at Linx goes far beyond lifestyle matching. We look for alignment in mindset, ambition, values, and emotional compatibility. Our clients aren’t just looking for companionship—they’re looking for a true equal. A confidant. A co-architect of their life.

A Global Perspective, A Local Legacy

While we’re proudly rooted in the heart of Silicon Valley, Linx operates with a truly global perspective. Many of our clients lead complex lives: they travel frequently, they live bi-coastally or internationally, and they carry immense personal and professional responsibilities. They need a matchmaking partner who understands nuance, respects privacy, and meets them at their level.

And most importantly, they want to be seen—not just for their achievements, but for the human being behind the résumé.

Silicon Valley isn’t just shaping the future of technology—it’s shaping the future of relationships.

At Linx Dating, we’re honored to be at the intersection of commerce, culture, and connection, serving a global community of exceptional individuals seeking exceptional love.

Because even the most brilliant minds deserve brilliant love.

The Beauty of a Thank You: Slowing Down with Snail Mail

By Amy Andersen, Founder and CEO of Linx Dating

In the blur of modern life—where texts fly in seconds and emojis pass for emotion—it’s easy to forget the quiet magic of a handwritten note.

One of my favorite ways to slow down and reconnect with intention is simple, old-fashioned, and deeply personal: sending snail mail. More specifically, thank-you notes.

There’s something grounding about taking the time to express gratitude by hand. The act of writing slows you down. It demands presence. You pause, reflect, and give thanks—not with a quick thumbs-up, but with thought and heart.

I love everything about the process:
• Choosing the perfect card or stationery
• Picking the right pen (always the right color)
• Letting the words come in their own time
• Tucking in a small, unexpected detail—a pressed flower, a fun sticker, maybe even a pinch of confetti

Each step transforms a simple gesture into something ceremonial.

If you need inspiration, I highly recommend wandering the aisles of a place like Paper Source. Rows of beautiful card stock, specialty pens, wax seals, and playful extras make it feel more like a creative ritual than a task. And don’t overlook your local post office—browsing stamps is a small joy of its own. Find one that makes you smile or reminds you of the person you're writing to. It’s an extra layer of thoughtfulness they’ll absolutely notice.

But thank-you notes aren’t just about manners. They’re about connection.
They’re tangible reminders that someone thought of you, appreciated you, and took the time to say so.

And yes, it can be incredibly romantic.

Imagine falling in love with someone and receiving handwritten notes in the mail.
It’s old-school, deeply thoughtful, and delightfully intimate. There’s something about seeing someone’s handwriting—knowing they sat down just to write to you that feels unforgettable.

My parents were amazing at this. In the early days of their relationship, letters flew back and forth nearly every other day. There’s a rumor those love notes still exist in a box tucked away somewhere in their house. My sister and I have asked to read them (multiple times). We’ve been firmly told: absolutely not. LOL.

If you want to go the extra mile, melt a wax seal on the envelope. It’s a small, intentional touch—a beautiful nod to an old-world kind of love.

Is it a little random? A little romantic? Maybe.
But it’s also real. Personal. Beautiful. And absolutely worth it.

In a world that moves fast, this is one of the ways I choose to move slow—with gratitude, intention, and a stamp.

Self-Care in Relationships: How to Communicate Your Needs with Intimacy and Integrity

By Amy Andersen, Founder and CEO of Linx Dating

Self-care doesn’t stop at the self—it’s deeply relational. The way we care for ourselves impacts how we show up for those we love. And one of the most courageous things you can do in a romantic relationship is clearly and compassionately name your needs.

But this can feel vulnerable. Many of us fear that communicating a need will sound like a complaint, a demand, or worse—that it will make us seem high-maintenance or fragile.

Here’s how to navigate that terrain with emotional intelligence:

1. Start with Self-Ownership

Begin by sharing what you’ve discovered about yourself—not what your partner is doing wrong.

Instead of:
“You never give me space when I need it.”

Try:
“I’ve realized I really need 30 minutes to myself after work before I can connect or talk. It helps me be more present later.”

This frames your need as a personal insight, not a critique.

2. Use the Language of Care, Not Correction

Position your needs as an invitation into greater connection—not a barrier.

Try language like:
Something that helps me feel more grounded is…
When I’m feeling off, I’ve learned that I usually need…
Can I share something that really supports me emotionally?

You’re not giving them a job—you’re letting them in on how to support your thriving.

3. Be Specific Without Micromanaging

Avoid vague statements like “I just need more support.” Instead, name the how.

For example:
When I’m overwhelmed, I’d love a hug or for you to ask, “Do you want to talk or have space?”
On weekends, I need one solo hour to recharge. Can we plan around that?
I love words of encouragement when I’m starting something new—it helps me feel seen.

Clear is kind. Vagueness creates confusion; specificity builds trust.

4. Be Curious About Their Needs, Too

Modeling vulnerability creates space for your partner to share, too. Ask:
What do you need to feel most yourself?
How can I support you when you’re stressed or tired?
Is there anything I do that unintentionally drains you?

Self-care in relationship isn’t just self-protection—it’s mutual stewardship.

5. Don’t Wait for a Crisis

It’s best to talk about self-care rhythms during neutral, grounded moments—not when someone is triggered or depleted.

Try having a monthly check-in where you both talk about:
What’s been nourishing
What’s been hard
What you each need more of, or less of

Think of it as tending the garden before the weeds take over.

6. Remember: You Are a Team

One of the most powerful shifts in a romantic relationship is going from me vs. you to us vs. the problem.

Self-care is not a solo act—it’s something you can co-regulate. When both partners are aware of each other’s needs, you create a shared foundation of empathy, resilience, and repair.

Final Word

You don’t have to earn your partner’s understanding. You just have to offer it with tenderness and truth. The right partner won’t resent your needs—they’ll respect them. Because loving someone means wanting to know what makes them feel whole.