F/32. I’ve been single for almost three years now. For two of those years, I was completely single and celibate. I did a lot of work on myself — healing, learning, becoming genuinely content on my own. I built my business, grew my confidence, and became truly secure as an individual.
I started dating again in March 2025 and have dated three people so far. One turned out to be avoidant. One was extremely jealous and clearly not healed after his ex had an affair. The third walked away to “deal with his issues,” came back a week later, then spent 18 days fighting for me — only to dump me six days before Christmas because his anxiety and overthinking became too much.
Honestly, these experiences have really put me off. I feel like I’m heading toward being single for another few years. There’s nothing wrong with that, I know — but I can’t help feeling like I’m in my prime. I’ve worked so hard on myself and I genuinely want to be a wife to someone someday.
I’m scared to rejoin dating apps. It’s hard to meet people organically. Everyone says they want long-term love, then seems to change their mind when it requires consistency or emotional safety.
Where are the genuine people? The chivalrous, kind, honest, loyal men with solid morals and values? Dating feels like a minefield right now. I’m scared to step back into it next year… but part of me still wants to try.
Just venting — needed to get this out of my system.