>but I don't feel very happy, and it felt doubly wrong to try to show myself in that light. I feel like I wouldn't be able to make anyone happy.

I don't think you should be dating if that's how you feel. I think you should wait until you feel happy, then start.

>Ultimately, I feel like I don't deserve to approach someone.

You use your discretion when dating; it's natural. Don't feel too bad about that because it's normal to have one, or several, filters. It's a good sign actually (I think at the moment dating someone with a child is an even worse idea for you, and for them).

Online dating is strange, quite different to what you're used to (and myself I think). It's okay, it's not bad, maybe it's not your cup of tea, maybe you'll do it later.

Don't worry about this 'beta' nonsense, just do what makes you happy. And your friend's urging; well they just have your best interests at heart.

Try Tinder. You're not selling yourself at all. It actually felt like meeting someone in real life to me, with the added bonus of knowing that they have pre-approved you to approach them.

>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A0OsAVMzW4

All dating success takes is persistence. All persistence takes is caring enough. If you're complaining about it, you probably don't care enough.