Ok, this might sound a bit wrong but I have been often told by family and friends that I tend to pick/like men who are "below" me, i.e they are less attractive than me, earn less, are less educated or are perceived as less "intelectual" than me.

I've only been (intimate) with two boyfriends (long term relationships) but recently have gone out with other men and I would like to settle hopefully. My parents didn't really like my boyfriends, they liked them as people but thought I was settling for "less" and had hoped better for me. My friends have told me the same. These guys were very nice and treated me well, so there was nothing worrying on that front. It' just that my family and friends perceived them to be "below" my standards or smth?

I have been single for quite some time now and when my best friend saw the men I have chosen to go out on dates with, she told me that I must have very low self esteem or maybe I am insecure or maybe I want to be adored. She said I can do so much better.

Is there such a thing as regularly picking partners that are "below" you? If yes, do you think there's an underlying reason for doing such thing? Frankly, I am a bit intimidated by very handsome and accomplished men, I don't see what they can see in me or I think they will cheat. So maybe there's smth to what my friend said?

Thanks a lot in advance and I wish you all a good day!