The Story of a 36-Year-Old Female PhD Student’s Dating Requirements—Scaring Potential Suitors Away
Victor Hugo once said, “There are many lovely women, but no flawless ones.” This reminds us that nobody’s perfect.
Linda, now 38, pursued a Ph.D. after graduating from college. Due to her studies, she didn’t focus much on relationships. Despite being beautiful, she hasn’t found anyone suitable. At 38, she’s considered a leftover woman by society, but she’s not bothered by her parents’ concerns about marriage.
Her parents urge her to settle down, but Linda remains picky. She wants someone educated, financially well-off, and compatible. Her mother is surprised by her high standards.
Her mother advises her to be less picky and settle down with someone similar to her. But Linda believes her hard work in education is to find the best match, not to settle.
Recently, Linda met Tom, eight years younger, through a friend. Tom is a successful entrepreneur. Linda finds his status appealing and agrees to meet him. Their first date goes well, and Linda is impressed by Tom’s manners.
During their second date, Linda expresses her desire for marriage and sets three requirements for a deeper relationship. Tom seems satisfied with her conditions.
Linda requests that Tom’s education not be lower than hers, his annual income be over $1 million, and he must move in with her after marriage to care for her parents.
Tom hesitates but asks if there are more demands. Linda replies that meeting these three is the minimum requirement for her satisfaction.
Tom, feeling pressured, questions Linda’s ability to conceive at 38 and decides they aren’t a match. Linda, furious, ends things and blocks him.
In real life, many women face similar situations. Being a leftover woman isn’t scary; overestimating oneself is. To find a great partner as a woman, remember two things for more happiness.
Be Excellent Yourself First
“Being a beautiful woman is not as good as being a beautiful person.”
When seeking excellence in others, also demand it from yourself. If you can’t keep up with your partner, the relationship will suffer. People seek better partners while becoming better themselves. Strengthen your abilities and stay humble to earn respect.
Don’t Be Too Arrogant
Many women are overly arrogant, thinking highly of themselves but disrespecting others. Respect is mutual; only when you respect others will you be respected. Don’t look down on others to avoid a downfall from vanity.
“Beauty pleases the eyes but doesn’t guarantee happiness.” Remember to be graceful, respectful, and humble. High emotional intelligence leads to a better life, while low emotional intelligence can be self-destructive.
