Hi! I have social anxiety too. Had it my whole life in one form or another.
I think it’s cool you’re going on a “sort of” date. For me, doing things out of the comfort zone can be hard. What are your hopes for the date - like are you wanting to form a friendship? Looking to gain dating experience? Or maybe looking for a partner? If you were my friend, I’d probably say that you don’t need to do anything you’re not comfortable with, even of it feels like you “should” want to. Walking on a nature trail sounds like a good time. I hope you have fun!
I tend to agree, but I’m also a very private person and like to keep my work life separate from my personal life. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with befriending or dating coworkers as long as both parties are able to be appropriately professional at work.
I think it may also depend on the type of job and where you work. I have worked at some places where I felt comfortable making friends and hanging out with coworkers - mostly retail jobs where the work itself was very social and casual.
My job right now is fully remote, so I’m friendly with coworkers, but can’t really hang out in person even if I wanted to.