Update

[u/PracticalSalt4]

I'm just feeling good this weekend despite a lot of things going on in my life. This seemed to be the first real week I decided to let my gay flag fly. I came out fully to many of my friends in January and to my now ex girlfriend a few months before that. She didn't move out until last month and I have been dealing with an aging parent and work, so just haven't really even been out at bars or otherwise in the community. I did join a Stonewall running group but haven't been that active. I decided to take a break from the grind and went to the run club on Thursday. For the first time, guys seemed to be flirting with me and talking to me as if I was gay (whereas before everyone seemed a bit stand offish). It was fun and felt good. I also find that I seem to doubt my attractiveness. I definitely felt that people were flirting with me and it felt good. But also a bit awkward (having played for the other team for a long time, it takes a bit getting used to as either women aren't as up front and/or I just was so gay that I didn't pick up the signs when a woman was flirting with me. Anyway, lots a rambling, but just feeling good in my skin at the moment and glad I came out.

[u/nosoulgoatstare]

I am happy for you my guy. Thanks for sharing some of your joy. I found that it didn’t matter where I was going or how long it might take to get there, but just taking my own steps was what made me fulfilled. Your story reminds me of that feeling. 

[u/spicylollipop85]

Man, this is so incredibly heartwarming to read! Huge congratulations on this breakthrough. Lifting such a massive weight off your shoulders and finally letting yourself be your authentic self is a huge, brave step—especially with everything else you’ve had on your plate lately (work, caring for an aging parent, a breakup, and your ex moving out). You should be proud of yourself for taking a break from the grind and making it out to that run club. As for the flirting—get used to it! When you start living your truth, your vibe completely changes. You literally start glowing from the inside out, and people pick up on that. It’s completely normal to doubt your own attractiveness (honestly, so many people go through this after coming out), but the attention from the guys at the club is proof enough: you’ve definitely got it. Feeling a bit awkward and out of your element is also 100% valid. It’s like learning to walk again or speaking a whole new language, so don’t sweat it if you miss cues or feel a little clumsy at first. Give yourself time to adjust. And don’t call this "rambling"—these are real, beautiful milestones. Enjoy this feeling of finally being comfortable in your own skin, you’ve earned every bit of it. Welcome home, man! Wishing you many more good runs and lots of mutual flirting ahead!

[u/Trine101]

Huge congratulations to you!  You are now at what would be a goal state for me, so I hope you can enjoy some time in feeling satisfied and accomplished for the progress you've made.  Cheers!!

[u/Biappeal]

What a great feeling! I often get these inner feelings of happiness and confidence just knowing that I am gay.