I have an extremely tough time dating, but 90% of that is on me, my schedule, and my own inferiority complex.

Even though I have 1 full time job and 1 part time job, I have practically no money and no time. Time goes into working, and money goes to loans and savings. I feel pretty insecure when I date someone else who is more successful than me since I judge myself for not being on their own level, and then I lambaste myself for being so behind.

I don't want to date someone because I have been on the other side where the guy's schedule was packed with work and his soccer club, and it really freaking sucked for me. The last thing I want to do; is do that to someone else (make it clear that work and personal life is priority - datee a distant third or fourth).

For the most part, the person you date is going to be understanding of your situation. The hardest part for me was coming to terms that I was the one who had the most problems with the fact that I couldn't pull as much financial weight as I wanted and the fact that I felt really shameful about my situation.

If you are okay mentally where you're at, you have goals and are working towards those goals, and you are upfront about your situation then dating should be okay. You can make your fair share of plans using groupon, plan inexpensive dates, keep up communication, be supportive of their life.

Money doesn't make you a great partner - but it's good idea to make sure you're not dead weight.

I always tell myself, when I'm ready, all I want is a partner who I can count on, who is supportive, and is genuinely interested in me and not constantly looking to upgrade. I want someone who will make time for me just as I make time for them. I plan on always working so I would not necessarily mind a housespouse or someone who doesn't have a high-powered job.