My problem lies in approaching them in the first place.

My fiancé approached me and that's the only reason we're together.

Now that I think about it that's the only reason I've ever been in a relationship

The bar is low and made of soap

Absolutely this!

I'm not particularly good looking and I've been overweight/unfit my entire life.

I have NEVER had problems getting dates or getting laid. I'm polyamorus these days, which narrows down the dating pool quite a bit and it still is not an issue.

The secret is just...be honest? Be authentic and treat people like people, regardless of their gender.

The bar really is low.

I worded that poorly.

The emotion I feel is somewhere between confusion, shaking my head, and wanting to slap someone in the face. I’m not ashamed of being male, but I do not appreciate others representing my sex so… negatively

My worst date (not 1st date, I think 3rd?). Me and this very tall and attractive woman were getting ready for some sexy time and when I brought out a condom she flipped out, said something along the lines of "ARE YOU CALLING ME A WHORE?!" and stormed out. I, of course, ignored this giant red flag because I was very horny and she was hot and tall. Over the next few months I found out how crazy she really was and finally ended it.

I haven't had a lot of bad dates, but that's because I only date friends. If a guy can't handle being in the friend zone first, he's failed the vetting process.