dating?
dunno really - it's a while since i've tried it.
in general, the more you approach a 'date' with the hope that this could be 'The One', the more likely you are to be nervous and not really handle it well, and the more likely you are to be disappointed.
if you approach it with the view that you're having an afternoon (or whatever) out and meeting someone new and see what happens, it's less likely to be too painful.
it can be easier to make an effort just to meet more people in a social kinda way, and it's a bit more relaxed, and you might meet someone that way.
some of 'the gay world' can be a bit orientated towards quick shags - some guys out there more or less assume that if you make conversation, then you're 'up for it'. there are however bits of the gay world that are a bit more sociable, both in terms of 'the real world' and the internet.
also, in terms of the internet, i'd be wary of spending too long 'getting to know someone' on the web - a few people are not what they seem, and this can lead to disappointment.
i assume it goes without saying that taking reasonable care of your own safety on dates is a good idea - aim to meet somewhere public, rather than invite complete strangers to your home or vice versa...
have fun
