I hate being single but dread the thought of dating, what should I do?

Anonymous

I’ve been single for about 6 months, since my ex cheated on me and we broke up. That was the only serious relationship I’ve been in, and it left me feeling pretty cynical about the concept of love in general. It’s taken me until now to reach a point where I feel I’ve properly moved on and could bear the thought of intimacy again. As much as I like the freedom of being single and independent, I’d love to have someone who was there for me, and feel the security of being in a loving relationship.

The whole concept of dating terrifies me. The process of getting to know someone, opening up only to risk them losing interest. Dating apps aren’t my thing, and I find it hard to meet people in real life, which is literally impossible now we’re in lockdown. I just want to have that feeling of falling in love again and a release from the fear that I’ll be alone forever.
I hate being single but dread the thought of dating, what should I do?
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