Expert: Susan Dunn, Dating Coach - 6/5/2007

Question
Since the age of 17 I've been seeking to develop only relationships that will lead to marriage. Though I've enjoyed dating, and believe me... I've done far MORE than my fair share, its pointless unless there's potential!  
I've gone out on dates with approximately 215 men. I've had about 18 relationships where we considered ourself an exclusive item, 4 of which lasted a considerable amount of time, I was briefly engaged once, and I've been in love 4 times.
I am only 25. Obviously I've been on a mission... lol.

I'm presently in a LTR with a guy that has repeatedly expressed his interest and desire for marriage (yes, to me). These are the only type of men I take seriously.

In retrospect, I thought I would've been married by now. Yet I'm not and I want to be. The mindless quagmire of the "sex and the city" style dating scene simply isn't for me. I've always wanted more and desired the security, intimacy and stability that marriage can provide. I know it's not a holiday, I know what it takes and much of what to expect but just seem to find a guy that's serious and ready to make that step with me.
At least 3 men (that I know of so far) that I was in a serious relationship with seemingly jumped into marriage immediately after our break up!
Question that makes my head spin is "why couldn't it be me?"
Is there something that other girls are doing that I am not? I've tried all sorts of approaches from relaxed and natural to idealistic and planned and everything in between.
I've varied my taste in men from the near broke hard worker, the mama's boy, the wholesome family man, to the aimless dreamer, to the loser next door, to the billionaire with the yacht, to the older sage man to the bright eyed youngster.
Apparently I missed the memo on what I should say or do (or conversely to say or do).

~Perplexed


Answer
Dear Perplexed,

Yes, there is something they are doing that you're not doing, and something you are not doing that you should be.  Probably many things!  There actually IS a Memo, and you didn't get it.  How unfair -- and a lovely girl like you!  

You know, everything we have to learn, one place or another, sooner or later.  If you'd like the Memo (coaching), email me at sdunn@susandunn.cc .  I'll give you the Memo (that actually is in writing), and maybe a couple of coaching sessions to make sure you're getting it.  It isn't something you can 'get' overnight!
Hope you'll take the challenge.  You've already made the first step -- admitting that you didn't get the Memo.

Susan Dunn
www.susandunn.cc