20F – Introvert trying to date without feeling overwhelmed… help?

Hi! I’m a 20F introvert who’s been trying to put myself out there more, but dating feels… kind of exhausting? I’m not socially awkward, but I definitely get drained quickly, and I struggle to tell when someone is genuinely interested or just being friendly.

Recently I’ve been talking to a guy I like, but I keep second-guessing everything because I don’t want to misread signals or come off too strong. I’m also terrible at initiating and I need time before I feel comfortable opening up.

My main struggles:
• Conversations feel easier online than in person
• I panic about “what to say next” even when I like someone
• I get overwhelmed if someone wants constant attention
• I’m scared of seeming uninterested when I’m just… introverted

For those of you who are also introverted:
How do you date without burning yourself out?
How do you communicate your need for space without making the other person think you’re not into them?
Any tips for not overthinking every little interaction?