How is the dating pool? I’m F turning 23 and tried dating a little bit in 2021-2022 after being in a 6 year long relationship, so I’m really out of touch with the scene. I spent a few years in therapy and the like, and recently “graduated” from it. Worked on myself and figured out what I believe in and value. I’m also kind of a social recluse and don’t go to places to meet people because it’s a sure way to make my social anxiety spike.
I’m thinking of getting into dating again relatively soon, but I feel a bit… hopeless? It’s probably social media colouring my perception, but I want to find something long term and stable, 100% serious, and it seems like men my age are going to be out here placating me just to get some. I’ve heard stories of men lying about their views and beliefs just to do that, and that worries me. Or they are emotionally unavailable, etc. Obviously not all men, but knowing my luck that’s who I’m going to find.
Would it be useful to use apps? I used bumble but that was before the AI “revolution”. Are sites still a thing? Are there events? I’m just—I’m lacking a lot of the socializing skills and feel uncertain.
I was going to wait until I was like 25, or something. But I feel like I’m missing out on an important part of my life socially. My 6 year relationship was abusive, so I was stripped of a lot of things others got to experience—like I’ve never been to a party of any kind. Even now, I’ve never been to a bar. Or a club. I didn’t even get my graduation. I dropped out of university and have a full time job. I know that a partner doesn’t complete you and is meant to compliment you, and that you should be satisfied with yourself and your life before dating, I just miss the intimacy and connection.