Well, I divorced at 41 after being married 19 years. All I can say is never feel like you _have_ to date. Turn on every filter you can think of and if someone occasionally seems interesting go on a date; you’re right about chatting, it’s pretty worthless so meet as soon as possible (but don’t scare them). Do a quick gut check and don’t settle. Most people are pretty terrible and that includes women.

Be happy being alone. That doesn’t mean stay alone, it’s just the right frame of mind whether you’re alone or not.

Fwiw - I met a wonderful woman right before the pandemic and have been seeing her since then: I couldn’t be happier.