Hi, Nicks Nose! Good to hear from you! I think what you have suggested is likely true. We like to be seen around successful/smart/good-looking people and want them to like us because we think we will also be elevated in other people's eyes (higher status), and yes, because we think there will be other payoffs. Good-looking people even are nice to just look at, and that's a payoff in itself!

I agree. We should try to recognize our own skills and assets, and move on if the other folks aren't attracted to us.

My thoughts, anyway.