Well here I am on the opposite side of the spectrum at nearly 30... I honestly don't know much about dating without directly entering a relationship, but I can advise you on something not to do.

It sounds like you're ready for a relationship. When I started many of my past relationships including the one I'm currently in, I was absolutely not ready for a relationship. So I did "nothing," I let myself be pursued, and let relationships happen without considering myself or chemistry or really anything at all. My best advice is to not fall into that trap because you still end up feeling alone, not human, useless-- all of it.

You are making conscious decisions about not moving into relationships which is GREAT. I wish I had half of the courage that you have. Keeping that in mind and also considering how weird dating is in this era, you may be better off by joining interest groups (hiking was mentioned before, but recreational sports leagues are another example I can think of off hand) with the goal of just meeting people in general. Go in looking for friends only. These kind of groups can help you to feel less alone and at the same time allow you to build connections with people who have similar interests. You may not end up dating any of these people-- but maybe their friends? Warm wishes, blue592!