32 M, never dated as an adult. For most of my adult life I kept to myself and didn't have many friends, although that's changed in the last couple years. A year ago I moved to a new city, came out of my shell, got pretty decent at talking with people and striking up conversations with strangers, and made some new friends. In some ways I still don't feel like I'm "ready" to date, but that's probably just the mental inertia of never having dated. And I'm sure I'll feel ready once I put myself out there.
To paint a quick picture of myself: I've been told by I'm conventionally attractive and have a nice voice, but I'm pretty short for a guy (5'6"). I have a decent job and disposable income. Most of my friends are women.
Questions:
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Where should I be looking to find a genuine relationship and not get my heart ripped out? I've heard dating apps are literal hell, but I'm thinking of trying my luck both irl and on the apps. Which apps are better and which should I avoid? What are some good places to meet single women? Currently I do stuff like bar trivia nights and rock climbing gym.
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What's the dating pool like for late 20s – early 30s? What should I be on the lookout for (red flags) and what's normal for this age range? Dating women with kids: someone told me that this was a no-go for them because of the bond you form with the kid. If you end up loving the kid like your own and then you break up, it's like losing a child too. Thoughts? I'm aware that I will encounter a fair number of single moms/divorcees with kids.
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When should I mention my lack of dating experience?