I (30f) have never been in a relationship or have had much dating experience in general. As the years go by, I’m realizing I do wish to find someone to share life with and for that reason really need to focus on putting myself out there this year / join the apps.
Personally, I need to build an emotional connection with someone prior to being intimate (even just kissing). I also need to feel trust and completely safe with my partner before being physical in any capacity- which isn’t built overnight. It takes a while for me to feel comfortable with a random stranger, perhaps future boyfriend.
How can I articulate to future dates that I prefer to take things slowly / that i operate this way? I don’t want them to think I don’t like them or that I’m not interested in them if I hold off on any sort of physical contact/intimacy take longer than most to feel truly open / safe in that department. I just really want to feel safe with my partner and that takes time.