I think your premise is wrong . . . that most people don't settle. I believe in the old analysis that the dating world is one big "market" (meat market, if you will.) We all have a value - on the market. You have to realistically know your exchange value and, then, go after what you, realistically, can get - based on what you have to offer. If you lack social skills, it brings down your exchange value. So you go after potential dates in an exchange "bracket" similar to your own . . . or you stay lonely. That's the reality of life. People who date successfully embrace that reality.