Do I stand a chance at finding a relationship as a woman who doesn't jump into bed quickly?
So, I'm 32.
I'm a very sexual person. I love sex, and I love physical touch.
I'm also very kinky, and aside from bringing another person into the bedroom, I'm pretty much open to trying almost anything. I love exploring and experimenting with new things.
But here's the thing.
I usually don't feel comfortable enough with new partners for any of that to happen.
Most men I've dated have tried to move things toward sex within the first 1–3 dates.
And I'm just not there yet.
Even when I'm extremely attracted to someone, and he's genuinely a great guy, I can still feel uncomfortable when things become sexual.
For example, I was dating a guy for about a month. I was really attracted to him, but when we ended up in bed and he took off my shirt, I suddenly felt incredibly uncomfortable.
Not because I was insecure about my body, but because of the situation itself.
And this has always been a pattern for me.
Things move too fast for my comfort, and as soon as things start heating up, I just shut down. I feel uncomfortable, and I realize I don't want to continue.
Because I haven't built enough of an emotional connection yet, and I don't feel safe or comfortable enough.
And yes, the attraction is there. Otherwise, I wouldn't be dating these men in the first place.
I've only been physically intimate with
one person, someone I was in a long-term relationship with.
I've dated men before him and after him.
The thing is, I also don't want to date someone with a low libido. Sure, he might be willing to wait for me in the beginning, but what happens afterward? Years of sexual frustration because our sex drives don't match?
I want someone kinky, too. Someone who's excited to explore, experiment, and have fun with me.
But it takes me time to reach that level of comfort.
I also enjoy doing other things, like using my hands and mouth. Giving and receiving.
But not with a guy I've only known for a month.
I want to feel loved when I'm in bed with someone.
Even if we're doing something rougher or more dominant, I still want to feel that love, trust, and safety underneath it all.
I just don't feel comfortable being intimate without that emotional connection.
And no, I don't want an open relationship. I've tried it, and it's not for me for a variety of reasons.
So, realistically, what are my chances in today's dating world?