It feels "really good" when someone pays attention to your looks/flirts, enjoys conversing with you in person or online.... and so on.. it's a high. But we eventually find out who is for real. It can really hurt when we find out what is real

I've been single quite a long time.
What I learned:

Enjoy what is going on in the here and now but no need to get attached quickly until you see who they really are and this takes time.

I've been through what you experienced more times than I can count. When I feel a connection or chemistry early on - I realize that this may only be a fleeting moment and do I really want to partake? And there are times I do, knowing fully well to stay in the present.

Actions mean so much more than words.

I enjoyed a man's company over the last year. This was not a full time relationship. I'm in a place where my career takes precedence. Recently, more than a few times, he indicated he wanted to spend time with me the following weekend or whatever.. anyway he never made the effort to make it happen. This happened more then a few times. After being disappointed - I realized I did not like him enough to fall in that disappointed trap. I sent him a text (yes a text) and told him - I'm not mad but the reality is "you just do not like me enough".... he text back that it was not the truth .. how much he enjoys our time.. well his actions say different.

The other thing, there are just so many choices. Someone may be very hot for you.. and then they run into someone else at the gas station... you get the picture..