This is hard for me—how can I present myself without risking sounding arrogant or self-deprecating, overly confident or desperate, and independent or needy?

I’m a very hardworking man. I’ve dated women who’ve told me “I work harder than everyone they know—them having dated/lived with doctors, investors, lawyers...” and I know this to be true… For two years, I’ve averaged less than 6 hours of sleep a night because of my ‘responsibilities.’ (work/family; no, never married, no kids) While it hasn’t stopped me from meeting and getting to know people, I know it has had an impact on the number. My work ethic has led me to hold high rank in my organization, with incomparable international reputation in my industry—and no, I’m not famous.

I would describe each of my relationships as healthy. I’m proud to be able to say that not a single one of my partners would say anything negative about their experiences with me. And to an extent, I am coming to learn this more as I have allowed myself to stay in touch with them in the absence of a committed partner. A common response is that I care to show up, and I do so as a genuine person. For some reason, I consider it flattery when told by some women that “they never thought something would happen between us” … as if they thought I was out of their league. Not sure why as I don’t have a ‘type’ … having dated women across the spectrum when measured in—career, knowledge/academic accomplishments, fitness (‘out of shape,’ professional athletes), financially wellness/security, funny/serious, promiscuous/‘prude’, etc.

Which brings me here. I’m discouraged by the women I’ve been meeting in Toronto. I’ve had three-to-four times better luck meeting women while travelling for work.

As the children’s tale goes: In a conversation between two animals, one asks, “what’s more important, the journey or the destination?” and the other replies, “the company.” While I’m comfortable being single, I, too, long for intimacy.

Ultimately, I’d like to be in a monogamous relationship with a lifelong partner. But until then, I’m searching for meaningful connections—whether they be ONS, a short-term thing, part of an ENM relationship, multiple partners, etc 🤷🏻‍♂️

…I’m ’desperately’ searching myself. And I’d love to be reminded of passion.

A bit (more) about me: I’m athletic (ex-varsity), I’m not 6ft tall (lol), olive skin, good stamina, respectful, CLEAN.