Dear Asianaussie~
Welcome back, I've read yur posts in
Forums
/
Depression /
Sensitive and Unmotivated and
Forums
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Welcome and orientation /
Post-Work Sadness
Now you say as far as relationships go "I don't really know what I can offer."
Um, well I disagree. You have battled bullying, finances, a TAFE course, a succession of jobs with dubious establishments, worked and got on with others in your first job, and also seen the practicality of your parent's advice, even if is is contrary to your desires.
Sensible, able to get on with reasonable people, steadfast in your studies, and now doing well and succeeding.
I'd add sensitivity.
In a good long term relationship (and I've had 2 spanning 50 years), the important thngs are enjoyment with the other, care for them beyond oneself, reliability, trust, and the ability to gain support (as well as give it) when needed.
You can offer all those.
Maybe you were clumsy with that guy at work, but then again maybe not, he had to have some comment to make himself feel better. If he had empathy he might have said something different. Frankly I have always been very blunt, saying thngs like 'I'd like to go out with you and get to know you better".
This acts as a sort of filter, and helps you find the one you need, frightening off those who just want a good time.
22 is not old -it's that simple. and you only have to find one -or -they only have to find you.
Please don;'t worry about 'social competency' No such thing, be yourself.
You are welcome to talk here as much as you would like
Croix