I Forgot How to Date

Curious if anyone else is also experiencing this as of late. I (Straight 25M) feel like I’ve forgotten how to date/flirt.

I remember in high school and going through college, I had a relatively high level of confidence when it came to dating and talking to women. I’ve always had dating apps (Tinder, Bumble and Hinge), but never relied exclusively on them to meet new people.

Well, two years ago, I met a girl through Tinder and we had a lovely 7 month relationship. We’re best friends even after breaking up since our breakup wasn’t due to any issues besides distance and career paths.

Well, it hit me recently that after a relatively short relationship, I’ve lost all my confidence with talking to women, and have quite literally forgotten how to date (or flirt?). I think I became too reliable on the apps for a period of time since work had me traveling a lot and very busy, so I almost exclusively met people through the apps for a while.

This hit me recently I’ve been out in town and seen a lady I find attractive, or even more so when I matched with someone from my apartment building and, even when I’ve seen her around, I freeze up and words just don’t come out.

Curious if anyone has also experienced this phenomenon lately. And if anyone’s overcome it, interested in hearing how.

Thanks for letting me vent.