Girls can hold back a lot, which is different from boys. Boys have strong desires and can't hold back, while girls can hold back their feelings for a lifetime, unless they particularly like you or are very aggressive types. Generally, girls are like ninjas, so sometimes boys need to be a bit bolder and let go of their pride appropriately in the early stages of dating.
Many people can't understand; it's not about being a 'dog' who clings to others. They have a kind of 'clingy dog trauma.' They have an acute stress response, feeling that if they take the initiative, they become a clingy backup or a fool.
Women are very smart, just like you in terms of conditions and standards. It's impossible for them to take the initiative and cling to you. Those who take the initiative are usually not as good as you and are trying to take advantage of you.
Don't be fooled by the numerous comments saying things like 'handsome guys' and 'girls are more proactive'; you envy that. The girls who actively pursue handsome guys are usually those who are not as attractive and are trying to take advantage of them. I've been pursued more times than those so-called handsome guys; don't I know that? Girls who are at the same level as handsome guys also expect the handsome guys to take the initiative. If a boy loses his ability to take the initiative, he will never find someone on his level.
I've met many girls who fall in love with me at first sight, unable to hide their expressions, yet their words are still very tough. Especially beautiful girls have a very high sense of self-esteem. When I asked her if she liked me, the beautiful girl coldly replied that it couldn't be considered liking, at most just a bit of affection. Yet within just a couple of days, she said she wanted to have my children and take me to meet her parents.
You don't need to worry about whether girls are taking the initiative or not, nor do you need to fret over this or that. Men just need to take action. If it doesn't work out, move on to someone else.