I (M20) have lots of relationship experience but really no dating experience. Any advice?

Hey y'all, I recently had a breakup in a four year relationship. For context, I'm only halfway through my second year of college, so this relationship lasted pretty much all of high school and the whole transition phase of college. Because of that, I don't really know where to start? I plan on waiting at least two months before I even start putting myself out there again but I was hoping for any advice on the actual dating process.

I was fortunate enough to never have really struggled to have people interested in me in the past, but I feel weirdly inexperienced and experienced at the same time. I know how to navigate a full relationship, but I really have no idea how to date someone (my ex practically told me I was going to be her boyfriend, and her preferred dates were picking up dinner to eat at my place).

Basically, I know to meet the type of person I want to be with, I need to be that type of person myself—hard work and all that. I guess I just don't really know what most early couples do? I really did skip straight to practically living together the first time.

If I haven't confused you (which I wouldn't be surprised by since I'm pretty confused myself) any advice would be greatly appreciated. Even if it doesn't help me, hopefully it helps someone else who reads it. Thanks!

Posted Dec 9, 2025, 9:54 AM UTC

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