Thrive Now: What Attraction Is Really Seeking

Attraction has biological roots. Many women are drawn to men who signal strength, confidence, competence, and the ability to protect and provide. Many men are drawn to women who signal health, warmth, and the capacity to nurture.

Runway fashion is different from everyday attraction. Models are chosen to display clothing—not to represent everyone’s romantic ideal.

Appearance may open the door, but feelings decide what happens next. People want partners who make life better: someone supportive, peaceful, affectionate, and dependable.

My advice to my younger self: look beyond beauty. Choose the person who brings out your best—and become that person for someone else.