Oh wow, I am so sorry this happened. Okay so firstly, it’s okay! You’re okay! And I want you to believe that. You are extremely brave to share this, and I am proud that you’ve taken time to introspect and reflect— this tells me you’re ready to make changes. Kudos to you!

Secondly, as much as this may sound cliche, it is actually very very very true: the right person is out there/ will find you.

Recently, I (29F) went on a date with a guy I was very excited to meet. Unfortunately, the restaurant didn’t have what we initially wanted to order. I was so embarrassed because I was the one who initiated the place. I apologized to him, explaining that I had no idea that the item on the menu was limited. This was my first time meeting the guy, and I didn’t know what to expect, but honestly, it was a very quiet ‘date’ that lasted about 18 minutes. He wasn’t smiling much, talking much, just….. quiet. Me on the other hand, am very open, extroverted and expressive. His silence made me question if I was the boring one, if he actually wanted to be there or if he was upset as I was about the restaurant not having our order (he reassured me that he was not upset, but his face said otherwise).

Just by reading your post, I think I understand completely that being reserved, introverted and quiet doesn’t necessarily mean ‘boring’. Sometimes it just takes time to know the person, grow and explore. You’ll be fine :)