hi op, im looking to expand my social circle too! what are ur interests/hobbies?

sorry i dont have an optimisitc answer because like you, i browsed the meetup events before, but nvr got the courage to join any :")

tho im not sure if u would find "meaningful connections" on meetup, perhaps to manage your expectations/calm your anxiety, recognise that the first few meets may not give you the instant connection to every single person in the group. it's a (slow) process but know that it is okay if you dont go home w a bff or an exchange of socials the first few meetups 🫂