I am 25 years old, male, and I have never been in a relationship before (I spent the last 6 years or so focusing on getting through university). I am now in a stable position and the idea of having a nice girl to spend time with sounds really appealing. Unfortunately, I am having real difficulty in attracting girls. It may be related to my inexperience or anxiety, but I have no idea where to even start. I have spent A LOT of time on dating apps/websites like tinder, bumble, match but have not had any success. Of the matches that I have had, they seem to be either fake accounts or girls that don't respond at all to my messages. The idea of swiping right/left based entirely on someone's appearance is an idea that is quite frankly hurtful in my opinion, so I am not sure whether online dating is for me. I'm also not really looking for one night stands. I have no intention of paying my hard earned money to these companies for "premium" services.
As for real life women, I have spoken to some female co-workers but it seems that they are all in relationships already.
My main interests are travelling, going on scenic walks, keeping fit at the gym, and dining. I looked up a walking group but the members are all at least 40 years old.
I went out to sit in a park today and saw what I thought was a beautiful girl and her boyfriend really did not appear that handsome. I don't mean that in a rude way. I don't consider myself ugly but equally I don't consider myself to be extremely handsome. All I could think was: how on earth did this dude manage to get a hot girl like her! And if he can do that, then why can't I? Is it because of a few extra pounds I've put on whilst at uni? I'm eating less and doing much more exercise now than before (at work and through the gym). When I left the park, I saw another good looking girl holding the hand of a dude that was wearing a scruffy shirt and looked like he hadn't shaved in a long time.
Also, what exactly do women mean when they say that they are attracted to confident men?
I have signed up to a speed dating event next month and that is basically the only thing that I have got my hopes hanging on.
Anyway, sorry for the rambling but I have been quite frustrated about the repeated failure and failing in the midst of other people's success has been really hurtful. It shouldn't be this hard!
Any advice welcomed.
Thanks