I’ve decided to try meeting women online again, making friends, and expanding my social circle. I don’t like Instagram, so I dug up my old Facebook account. I’ve always liked Facebook’s dynamic because when someone accepts my friend request, we’re both connected — unlike Instagram, where it’s harder to gain followers and it often gives the wrong impression that ordinary women are exceptional. Even though Facebook’s engagement is poor and it’s cluttered with complaints, it has always been the best app for meeting people.

In the past, I had some luck, but nowadays I feel like I’ve hit a wall. I have a decent profile. I’ve been ignored many times, which is normal, but with the women I do talk to, I can’t seem to connect. I’ve chatted with young, attractive women in other situations who told me I’m good at talking, at least online — which I consider a great compliment — but with these women, I just can’t seem to make it work. I know everyone has their own moments and personal issues, so I don’t take it personally.

The problem is, I can’t seem to awaken the right emotions in these women. Later, I see them getting into relationships with guys I consider less attractive and less financially successful. I don’t want to sound bitter or jealous, nor do I want to put other men down. On the contrary, I want to understand what they did that I might have overlooked.

Maybe the women I’ve been approaching — who are mostly older, single moms, or divorced — see a guy like me, younger and without kids, and assume I’m only looking for fun or easy sex. Or maybe I’m just making excuses and I’m not as interesting as I think.

Is anyone here having success in this area?