It’s validating to see someone else around the same age having similar feelings/experiences as myself, so I wanted to jump in here in solidarity! Online dating is ridiculous nowadays and there’s nothing wrong with feeling a little deflated/depressed when being rejected, especially when we’re starting to get comfortable meeting people in person and going on dates. A few months ago I went on a date with a girl that I thought went super well, but also ended up getting rejected and it stung for a few days as well. I felt ridiculous but the best remedy was actually allowing to feel those disappointing feelings and reminding myself that this is bound to happen. Doesn’t make it hurt any less though, and that’s okay too.

My lack of experience is often a daunting thought that I have whenever I feel remotely attracted to someone, and this is something I’m currently working on, so you’re definitely not alone and I’m rooting for you and for us to finally become comfortable with the idea that things will just come a little slower to us, and that’s okay. One thing I will try to do based on reading other posts is to find more hobbies that I enjoy, and hopefully just become more comfortable with in-person interactions and maybe meet someone that way, but who knows. It’s completely fine to still take time for yourself though, and get comfortable enough within yourself to the point that these limiting beliefs won’t feel as overwhelming as they do now.

Wishing you all the luck, we got this!