I want to start my post by saying I'm keeping a positive attitude, and I just want to figure out what I can do better or differently. I've always had an open mind to new ideas and self improvement.

So I'm a guy, not quite 30 yet today, I'll be there soon. I feel like I have tried everything at this point. For a couple years, various things got in the way of putting my best foot forward (be that Covid, or just generally waiting until I had all the other area's in my life on solid footing, which I do have now.) So, starting over a year ago I put forth what I think is my best, most concerted effort and I have not had one date to show for it. I'd be inclined to "stick with it" as some people have told me, but right now I don't have any real indication that anything will change.

Online: I tried a lot of different apps, put some serious time into it, paid for some premium versions, but all in all, no results. I don't have exact data, but its probably a couple thousand likes sent, and a few hundred messages sent. Matches less than 10, couple convos that immediately faded, 2 longer convo's, of one unmatched me out of the blue and one date almost scheduled, but then ghosted.

Apps used at various times:

• Hinge (paid)

• Bumble

• Tinder

• Match (paid)

• Ok cupid

• Coffee meets bagel

• Plenty of fish

What I've done to try and improve my profiles:

• take new photos

• have my friends take new photos a few different times

• friends helped me fill out a profile and occasionally send out messages (and at times letting me straight copy some applicable things that have worked for them in the past)

• online research for profile improvements and for messages (how romantic...)

• all different types of first messages sent (with an emphasis on showing that I read their profile)

Self improvement:

• adding new well fitting items to my wardrobe

• done some therapy

• consistent gym workout regimen

Online is not the only thing I have tried. Also done in the hopes of meeting people:

• speed dating

• singles mixers/other events

• few different rec sports

• a couple classes

• asking friends and family if they know anyone

• I had a post in this very subreddit several months ago

There was an emphasis on trying things I'd still enjoy so it wouldn't be a total loss, and I mean, I did enjoy some of these activities (mainly the rec sports) and I'm going to keep doing them regardless.

It would be one thing if there were dates here and there, maybe the wrong person, wrong fit, etc, you live and you learn and you grow, but not one date. I can understand trial and error, but it's been only error.

I wouldn't have thought there was anything wrong with me a year ago, but I have questions now. What is it that is preventing me from so much as finding even 1 date? As far as my friends go, they have all had good success on the apps, and elsewhere over the years, and they are all in LTR's so I think they know what they are doing but it just hasn't worked for me.

I don't have any of my profiles up anymore, but some things about me that I might be inclined to include:

• Stable full time 9-5 job

• financially stable and independent, have my own apartment near the core

• white, shade above 6'0 & in good/average shape

• ever so slightly receding hair, which I keep quite short

• love the outdoors and staying active, taking a nice long walk

• I can count on one hand how many drink's I've ever had(not actually opposed to it within reason), no other vices (as long as coffee doesn't count...)

• Enjoy some sports, big Leafs fan (I have the #passion)

• like seeing movies and just chilling and watching tv

• I like pets, even if I don't currently have one

• open to travel

• Super easy going, enjoy the simpler things in life, but I still love trying new things

• I treat people the right way, get along well with everyone I meet, people generally seem to like me (at least I hope so... lol)

• thoughtful, good listener, loyal, can be on the quiet side until I get to know someone

• hope to eventually get married and have a family of my own some day

I think I'm living pretty close to my best life otherwise, I don't have any complaints, it's just this one thing that I very much want in my life. I think the best way I'd describe myself in that regard is "I'm happy, but at the same time, not so happy"

As far as what I've been looking for, I've been drawn towards women of similar background and fitness to me, within 5-6 years of me. Someone who has the same types of goals surrounding a future family, someone who is a good person who I can get along with and that we can just go out and do fun things together.

I'm getting to the point where I feel like even if I did go on a date I wont be at my best, having been out of it for so long. Online isn't working, other things haven't worked... where should I go from here?

I guess this post kind of works as both looking for some advice and direction, and some level of self advertisement, lol :)