slowly improving myself

So I have noticed recently my confidence out and about has improved and i am more chatty to people in shops. i can easily talk to my local model shop workers each time i visit (which seems to be weekly) and generally chat to the barista at costa. 

Before i never use to do all of that as i feel my autism makes me look different. and i started to realize i can't go on like that. i am constantly pushing myself at my own pace yet i cannot manage changes. i still panic about it. and not sure how to overcome it. i am 21 years of age and i feel stupid that i cannot manage change easily. 

I also want some tips on dating as an autistic/ person on the spectrum. I kinda watched stuff and messed up my thought process and i am constantly fighting urges. 
I am unsure how i can go from random chatting to actually a date. i am not very social online as in social media because i prefer in-person conversations.