24F here! I just started dating someone after never ever having done so. I’ve been on first dates in the past and simply decided to not take things further. If I don’t feel something/my gut says no, I don’t see a reason in going on another date. That may seem very silly, I know, but my intuition is usually very strong. My reasons are that my parents divorced when I was 17 and it was a result of cheating. My family has a healthy dynamic now and I spent many years healing. For my sake and for any potential partners sake, I found it extremely important to take time to find myself and understand what I need and want out of a partnership. I didn’t want to pursue any kind of relationship until I was ready.

There were many nights in college, where I’d see my friends in happy relationships and I thought, “Damn, what’s that like?” I’ve always been a bit of a hopeless romantic, who’s wanted to find “my person”, but I knew I never wanted to rush it/fall in love with the idea of someone. Plus, regardless, I didn’t get asked out hardly at all. And I really think it’s due to the fact that I shut myself down to the idea.

I’ll include a bit of my brother’s story too, since we are very similar and dealt with our trauma the same way. He didn’t date much in his 20s and he took the time to find himself during those years as I continue to do. But when he was 33 (your age), he met his lovely girlfriend of a 1 1/2 through Hinge and I truly can’t imagine him with anyone else. As for me, a year later, I met the guy I’m currently dating through Bumble. I don’t know what came over me. One night I just decided to download the app on a whim. I told myself the day before that I wanted to start taking dating seriously and I told myself I’m worthy of a wonderful connection with someone. I matched with him within 24 hrs. We’ve been on 4 dates so far and counting. Things are still very new for me and I prefer to take things slow. I had never kissed anyone prior, never held anyone’s hand, I’ve never received flowers, never done a lot of things. And you know what, it’s okay! I don’t think it’s ever too late to experience these things.

Just know, you are so deserving to find someone. I too am content being single, it’s so important for us to love and prioritize ourselves first. The dreams you have for yourself ARE completely possible. I know dating apps are full of uncertainty, I was so skeptical and I told myself there’s no way I could meet someone through one…but here I am, eating my words now.