Is it normal to hate dating?
Mostly.Normal for most people
Yes—lots of people hate dating, even if they still want a relationship. The awkward conversations, uncertainty, and pressure to make a good impression can make it feel more like work than fun.
You can want closeness or a partner and still hate the process of meeting people, making small talk, or figuring out whether someone likes you. Dating apps and the feeling that every date has to “go somewhere” can add to the slog.
Some people genuinely enjoy dating; plenty of others would rather skip straight to the comfortable-relationship part. It’s fine to take a break or try a style of meeting people that feels more like you. You don’t have to force yourself to date just because it seems like everyone else is doing it.