I'm really trying to get out of my sob stories but dating is one of the most difficult things I've ever done in my life. I've tried so many things to improve my dating life. I go to therapy 1x a week (although I do that for myself, not necessarily a partner) to raise my self-esteem, tried dating coaches, and dating books, and gained advice from friends. I lost weight, improved my style, hair, make-up, my social and conversational skills, and created an active social life (I go out at least 3 or 4x a week). I go to a lot of networking events involving my profession. My industry is male-dominated, especially within my particular field. I also go to meetups for single people. I go to meet-ups geared for single people too. Every time I go in public I try to look my best.
I rarely even get approached. On dating profiles, I rarely get messages as well. Usually, it's just guys asking for hookups. If a guy does ask for a date, typically he flakes or doesn't show up. I tried to open up past the type of guy that I'm attracted to but I'm not having luck there either. Sometimes I've had guys walk out on me when they meet me (yes, I look like my pictures!).
I've been able to see only a couple of guys consistently over the years, but they usually only ask to see me once a month or so. Probably dating other girls. It never turns into anything actually serious. After a while, I just end it because it's clear it's never going to go anywhere.
I see guys approach other women, but never me. I also see other women in my area get into relationships fairly easily. It makes me feel bad sometimes. I've tried hard for a number of years but as I get into my 30s I have to accept that maybe relationships aren't for me.
I try to listen to YT videos about detachment and living a fulfilled life that focuses beyond men to try to combat this.
so take from that what you will.
