I’m fairly feminine, slender, have long hair, let the man lead, don’t hook up, etc. and for the most part, subscribe to the traditional advice for how women “should” be. I also enjoy cooking, have a number of quality female friendships, come from a good family, etc….

Problem is, I’ve reached 29 without a boyfriend or husband. My last long-term relationship ended at 28, and I took a few months off from dating before diving back in. I’m terrified about my value to men because of my age (is 29 really so old!? I’m deff much kinder and prettier now than I was at 23).

I have no issues getting dates on Hinge (yet lol) but I consistently see men marry teachers, social workers, nurses, and occasionally women in PR/marketing/fitness. I understand and appreciate that men don’t care about your job or education at all, but someone told me that there’s no way I can compete against women who work with children or nurture others for a living. I’m worried that my white-collar, “pedigree” job will push good guys away, so I usually keep what I do for a living VERY quiet.

For the record, I’m very caring and love to do the same thing other girls like to do outside of work - brunch, beach, pilates, hiking, etc. but my Monday-Friday can be considered “masculine.”

Does anyone have any advice on how to overcome this career (and age) hurdle? I wouldn’t mind being a full-time yoga instructor or something, but then I wouldn’t be able to afford living where I do (SoCal) and all my hair appointments 🤣