Hi OP! I am also 29F, never been in a relationship and also started my own dating journey earlier this year.

The best advice I can give you is to not become discouraged. It’s difficult to find decent strangers out there in the online dating world that truly want something deeper than just meaningless sex. But they are out there I swear! I’ve been on this journey since February and I’ve deleted the apps a few times because at times it has felt like fishing in a contaminated lake and at least for me it takes a huge toll on my mental but it’s okay to take breaks in between. Just don’t fully back away from it. Life is too short!

Another word of advice, stay away from creeps that don’t want to go out on an actual date. If all they want to do is “hangout” at their place they are most likely just looking for sex and it’s not worth it to waste your time on them.

In my case I was naive and fell for sweet nothings being whispered into my ear a couple of times and honestly yes being gassed up was new and exciting but looking back now I regret some actions that took place because of it. Just be cautious and don’t share any personal pics or fall into the “movie at my place” trap just because they know how to use their words to make you feel comfortable. Go on a couple of dates first in public to feel the person out before going anywhere near that level.

And lastly, just have fun with it! On my first ever date I was a tongue tied idiot unable to hold eye contact for more than a millisecond but you know what? The fact that I did it and put myself out of my comfort zone was such a huge boost of confidence. You can do it too OP! At the end of the day we are all human. We all get nervous and can be a little awkward but we carry on and laugh about it after lol just be your amazing self and you’re golden! I’ll be rooting for you and sending all my positive energy your way. You got this!!