to think that I am missing out?

[PrinterRanOut]

I've never had a relationship, which is something which hugely bothers me. I had terrible BO and acne until my early 20s, which really affected me in so many different ways.

I've been going to therapy and I do feel better. I know that I have came through a lot and I can recognise my strong points and describe the good things about me. I know I have a lot to offer and I think I could be a good girlfriend or long term partner. I just can't meet anyone though. I've been trying Bumble and Hinge, and preCovid tried a few meetups and different hobbies.

I'm so tired of watching everyone else move on, settle down and have kids. I want that.

The only things my therapist says are

• better no relationship than a bad relationship (yes, I know)
• that meeting someone won't 'complete me'

But I think it will. Surely there are so many things I'm missing out on.

I think if it's what you want then it's a real heart ache not to have it, so I disagree with your therapist.

I really feel that even a short relationship would give me so many new experiences and help me to grow as a person.

It sounds like you're doing what you can to meet people. There's not a lot more you can do. Be open when you're out, make eye contact, smile, chat. (Disclaimer: I'm old, this is how we did it back then). How old are you?

Have you met anyone on the apps? That's how I started my last relationship. Make sure you have pictures and a profile description that you like!

I turn 28 in 2 weeks. I know that is technically still young, but when I say I have never had a relationship, I mean it. I've been aware of my singleness since I was 17.

No, I've never had any luck on the apps. I've been ghosted so many times. My best five dates were

1 and 2: fine but definitely not any more than that
3: weirdly intense, asked me to go on holiday with him after an hour
4: lied about something fairly major
5: really good, but ghosted me after date 3

This is probably no help but...
I use the sauna a lot at the gym - to improve my skin and help with my odour issues.

I also get to chat with a lot of different chaps while I am in the sauna!

So - maybe joing a gym - as much for the incidental social element?
(Caveat - I am also old)

I am a member at a gym and preCovid went 3 times a week.