Before you start dating, it's a good idea to have a clear idea of what you are looking for.  You also need to think about how important those traits are - what's on your wish list and what are your deal breakers.  Be realistic.  Ask yourself : "if everything else was perfect could I deal with the fact that___?" 

For example, if everything else was perfect could I deal with the fact that the person I am dating is of a different religion?  The answer could be no and this could definitely be a deal breaker for some.  On the other hand if you ask yourself "if everything else was perfect could I deal with the fact that the person I am dating has red hair instead of blond?"  In most cases the answer would be yes and this would go on the wish list. 

Everyone has preferences and there is nothing wrong with that.  Many of these preferences are positive, like wanting to be with someone with good values or needing to be with a non-smoker.  However, preferences can be limiting when we become so rigid that we don't allow ourselves to explore new people or new ideas.  You may need to leave your comfort zone to get out of your dating rut.