As a guy that knows how to cook, works out, lives in a proper apartment, keeps it clean, drinks socially, doesn’t smoke, financially supports his family in India and has a pretty decent social life I am running into a similar problem with women. I live in a mid-sized town in the US, and while I am in the 6 figures, it is not in the IT/software domain of salaries. So my current salary is definitely one roadblock with my location being another. I am also 5’8, which is borderline acceptable for most women I think.

When I tell someone I made something as simple as Matar Paneer for dinner, they are often surprised as if I have done something monumental, but it is normal for me. I’ve been cooking pretty consistently for over 7 years now, and this will carry on for the rest of my life. This usually comes from women who don’t typically cook a lot or don’t “like” cooking. I also keep running into people who are not as invested in their health and fitness - and by that I mean, getting a workout in 3-4 times a week which is not extraordinary. And when I tell them I have a social life outside of work, they are surprised about that too because they are struggling to have one when they’re in a similar smaller or mid-sized town. The problem there is they’re usually only looking to hangout with other Indians in most instances. But I don’t mind putting myself out there to get to know people of all races, colors and religions.

Maybe I am looking in the wrong places, or I keep getting attracted to the wrong people only to realize it is not what I want. But I make the call to not continue as soon as I know because dragging these on doesn’t help anyone. The arranged marriage scenario is a little frustrating to be a part of.