Hello, some context :
My only "serious" relationship was 9 years ago and it barely lasted 3 months, we met on a dating app and never dated IRL. Social dynamics in general confuse me, I'm a bit awkward and clumsy, I struggle to match the energy of people around me, and understanding social cues is tough. I don't really struggle when I'm with people I've known for a long time, when making friends, or when talking to colleagues, people generally like me even if I'm a bit weird, but when it comes to dating, flirting, etc. I am clueless. I'm aware these are things I can work on and that's what I want to do.
I'm coming out of a period of inactivity in my life. For several years, I didn't go out, I didn't finish my studies, I wasn't meeting anyone new, I wasn't trying anything, I basically stayed at home most days. I started improving my life about a year ago, started being active again, trying to get out of my comfort zone, trying new things. I finally got a car, I started taking care of myself, bought new clothes, I'm looking to exercise again, and a bunch of other stuff.
I think I'm ready to start seeing people again but I have no idea what to do. I'm not sure what kind of advice I need. I think my lack of dating/flirting experience is obvious to others, people have expectations and I respect them. I'm aware a 27 year old man with very little dating/relationship experience is not very attractive but I'd rather be myself than lie to get a date. I'm unsure what to do. I just know I absolutely do not want to date random people with the sole intention of becoming more experienced.