I [26/m] have a dilemma about relationships in general. How much expectations can we have from another person?

People say one shouldn't expect anything from others and that way one can be happy. When you don't expect, you don't get hurt. Fine. But how does this jive well with going out and expecting to find a romantic partner or even a friend in others? Am I wrong in expecting the most basic things from others? What am I missing? I have lived most of my adult life with zero expectations. I am also single and have never had a girlfriend. My outlook on life is interfering with me trying to find a romantic partner.

Sorry if this is not the appropriate sub for this sort of a question. Thanks.