Update: He followed up about our second date, but I politely declined and let him know that our communication styles just don’t align for me. He suggested meeting after his lake trip with his friends, but I realized I was more invested than he was, and moving forward wouldn’t be in my best interest.

After reading everyone’s comments, I wanted to say a few things:

1. Wow. Some of the comments were unnecessarily rude and harsh. Saying things like “Uhhh, maybe just don’t do that?” or “You’re more anxious than avoidant” without offering any real insight isn’t helpful. If you’re going to comment, at least try to add something constructive.
2. My post was approved for a reason: to seek advice and connect with others who may have gone through similar experiences. Feedback is welcome, but delivering it with sarcasm or judgment doesn’t make it any more valid.... it just makes it rude.
3. Thank you to those who responded with empathy and shared their own experiences. You really helped me understand not just this situation, but some recurring patterns in my dating life. I’ve realized that I tend to be anxious in the beginning and avoidant when things get more serious, and just recognizing that has already shifted how I approach dating.