Why do i feel like I'm 17 again when i date? I get kinda shy and feel like i've never had conversations with anyone prior to that date. I'm such and idiot

Love your profile

I think what you are describing is pretty normal.
I felt that way after my divorce, when we are faithful we are kinda out of practice & take things for granted.. well, at least I did. And when we are younger, we are braver, & probably dumber.. well at least I was. When we are older we are more cautious & skeptical & a whole lot wiser.. well at least I am

It gets easier, just be you & don't beat yourself up.

You should be happy that you feel your younger self. It means you have not lost touch with the true you. The greatest gift you can give your date is you. I mean, thats what its all about, isn't it?

Too many people put too much into the dating experience. Thinking there is requirements. All that is required is that you are there.
Formalities can get in the way. Dating is to determine if there is something between you two. Not a test of how well you do.

Be natural.

Anyone that complains about you being you is probably not the right one for you. Do they want an actor or a real person?

not an idiot

everyone feels young when they're in love

it is natural

i too am like a kid in a candy store

Great advice Sir

Dating Suggestion:

You are taking a sweetie out for an evening on the town.
Not sure what to do?

Do something that you have already mastered.
If you are good at sports and you know where there might be an open game ... take her - let her see you at your best.

Thats what it is. You need to shine. Something that you can master with little effort.

See, If she is not hooked by your personification set the hook by showing her you are a master at something.

If you are a good cook - fix her dinner.
If you are a smooth talker - take her to an auction
If you are a passionate lover - take her somewhere private that is romantic and let your nature lead you - Just respect her.

I love to drive, I always try to take a nice scenic drive with good soft easy likeable music playing. I point out the (prettiest) scenery and I watch her. Watch her closely. Adjust frequently and remember those adjustments.

Impressing her is a moment by moment thing but its the overall impression she is going to remember as she is getting comfy in bed that night.
Ya gotta put out enough to hook her but keep enough back to make her want another visit. Even if she falls for you, you need to always keep a wow factor in reserve.

Us men are forced into the position of prover. The lady decides. Always keep that in mind. Its natural and happens all over the world with other species. Sometimes it think it would be easier to just flash my tail-feathers and do a dance but us human have complicated the whole thing.

Gotta demonstrate that you have a coveted quality that the other males don't have. Are you good with money? Show Her. Are you good in people situations, Show her. Show her what you are good at. Whats the worst that can happen? She says no? Oh well, Move on...