Unfortunately, a lot of people settle for someone because they're afraid of loneliness. Some settle for someone because it's a logistic issue where they are looking for another person to share financial responsibiliti es. In fact, this is much of the reason why people get married in the first place. Some people don't even marry but enter long-term boyfriend/girlfriend relationships (even co-habitating) just so they can have a semblance of family and companionship. These relationships also turn very toxic.
A long time ago I decided that if I wasn't completely in love with the person and if I didn't feel/see the love reciprocated, then I wasn't going to marry that person.
I'm not going to settle for less, despite having strong feelings for someone, if they don't take real action towards me for a better life. I'm glad I did so because my husband has never abused me. He's made some stupid mistakes but because of him, I will never settle for anyone who doesn't treat me with the same kindness.