The latest talk-of-the-town mass media sensation is Hong Kong’s first (at least so on the city’s free longstanding and conservative TV station) reality TV show, “Bride Wannabies“. Don’t let the show title fool you, it’s nothing like “The Bachelorette” of the States. 5 single ladies allow a TV crew follow their every move in their romantic adventure toward finding their future partners. The show won’t be nearly as entertaining or captivating to the public without the abundant supply of so-called life coaches, match makers, psychologists, dating strategists, and of course, a variety of makeover stylists and cosmetic surgeons. Everyone I know have watched the show with at least a comment or two, to say the least.
The show centers around one theme, which is the literal translation of “leftover ladies” in Chinese. Apparently some also called them “3S” ladies meaning ladies who are single, seventies and stuck. I think that’s harsh. Anyway, it generally refers to women who are highly educated, make a good living and certainly have high standards of everything in life, including their choice of men.
Enough has been said about the show itself, the 5 bride wannabies, and the highly controversial experts. I am rather interested in the social phenomenon and why there is such a difference in treatment between the men and women in this city.
I will never understand why single women are brutally labelled as leftovers as if there is something wrong with them. What about the men? Alright, scholars are rationalizing it saying it’s the conservative notion of women looking for men to protect and take care of them, and that there is still this historical belief of female inferiority in our society. In my opinion, if you have lived through life with enough experience knowing that Prince Charming only exists in fairy tales, you will certainly adapt and adopt a new standard of your significant other as you age. However, if you feel that you need to be absolutely honest with yourself with what turns you on, both physically and emotionally, by all means keep your faith, look for your Mr. Right, and embrace and enjoy your single life in the time being. There is no right or wrong. You are the owner of your life.
Some people brought in the financial aspect claiming that it’s becoming less and less viable sustaining in this economy without living a coupled life. Isn’t it better however making your own bucks than looking for a meal ticket somewhere? It’s harder than winning a lottery really, and you still risk losing it through unexpected breakups or divorce. It’s not a business transaction. If you are really committed in setting yourself as a commodity in the market, please, assess your market position and how much bargaining power you have. That goes for both men and women. In my line of work, so many buyers and sellers fail to come to an agreement solely because of the absence of such awakening. My job is to shake some sense into both parties. I kid you not, I can very well make a career change into a match maker in this booming market.
Some women complain that men are often intimidated over how successful they are. Well, either these men are not worthy for them to begin with, or the women need to reflect over themselves whether they have actually been sending derogatory remarks all along. If it was the latter, then they are just digging their own graves by possessing extremely poor social skills.
There is nothing wrong with singles, women or men, at any age. The key is whether they lead a happy life, and be content with what they already have. Step out of your comfort zone and expand your circles. Whinners are losers, if they are not doing anything about it. Time and time again people report that they are attracted by cheerful, confident guys and gals. And remember, confidence doesn’t mean cocky. If you carry yourself well with elegance, humility, confidence and a positive outlook on matters, I really don’t see how you won’t find yourself surrounded by admirers.
So instead of those stupid and meaningless dating strategies that are nothing more than sound bites, you will never go wrong with investing in yourselves, and believing that leading your own life in your own way probably is one of the best blessings of it all.
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