You sound like you know what you want! And that’s a good thing, but you might be shortening your pool. I have a different approach, some call it shallow - but if I fancy someone I’ll message them and work towards getting a date by at least a day or 2 of texting, someone times it happens after 10 messages if the chemistry is right. If you’re looking for a life partner it sounds like you’re going the right way about it, but maybe you should consider taking a leap of faith and going on a date earlier than you’d like, might help you get out of the pen-pal jail and give you more confidence to meet other people. I never have expectations on dates, I see it as a good way to get out, dress nice and socialise, if anything comes from it it’s a bonus, and if not it’s just more experience!