I know this is a question for deeper analysis and probably a therapist to properly address root causes, but just wondered what your take is on this madness and whether anyone can relate?
I don't know why this is, but whenever I've had a couple of positive dates with a new man I find myself constantly on edge, waiting for him to message. I'm not generally over-invested, I'm not thinking they're 'the one' or inventing a fantasy future or anything like that and I wouldn't even feel particularly disappointed if they weren't interested in another date, but for some reason the wondering whether they like me causes me low level stress.
I don't know if it's the constant 'online' culture and the feeling that everything is instant these days that makes the pauses feel anxiety inducing.
I don't feel that way in any other area of my life, I'm not usually one to be bothered about people liking me, but the I have always made female friends easily. Why am I being so weird?
For reference, I'm mid 40s, a couple of years out of a v long-term relationship, never done the dating apps previously. The last time I dated, we went out with friends and people chatted is up. Is this just a crisis of confidence?