All good questions. I think you need to start with: what are you looking for? What are the interests you have and do these interests have a place to meet where you can find others who enjoy the same thing? I think the most important thing whether dating or in a deeper relationship is to be your authentic self. Don't put up a facade unless you intend on propping it up for the duration of your interaction with person you meet. It's been my experience, as cliche as this sounds, that when you enjoy your own company, others will too. Be you. As for the rushing into sex, that can be subjective. What is too soon? What is taking too long? That depends on you and the person you meet.
Dating is quiet easy, really. You see someone you like, and ask them out, on a date. You’ll know, when you like them.
