I think there is a huge gulf between initiating contact, texting (or ringing) first and putting your life on hold for a man. I would never do the latter, nor do I believe those on here advocating non-Rules behaviour would either.
I agree that most men like women who aren't (or won't become) needy or overly dependant upon them (with the obvious exception of those who are seeking to control for one reason or another). I know that someone on here mentioned that being unavailable for too long can interrupt the flow of dating to such an extent that it stops altogether, but I still hold with the concept that you don't dump your friends for a man (or woman). I've seen far too many independent and (otherwise) sorted women put their social lives on hold. I get that they've "in love" but still. For any relationship to flourish, it is necessary to make time for it which means that - inevitably - you will be less available to some of the people you spent time with before. Vastly different, however, to refusing to make any plans "in case" or cancelling plans already made. Respect - both for yourself and for your friends is key surely.
As for the liking (or not) of successful women. I would say few men aren't intimidated by an uber successful woman. Even uber successful men aren't interested. They have a busy and complex life, so they want someone smart, attractive, intelligent, witty, capable etc etc ... BUT who doesn't have a life/career that will clash with their uber successful man.
Lastly, age, does make a difference. In my age bracket (I'm 56) you get those who are very old fashioned and like to do "man stuff", those who think its all nonsense game-playing and those who love the game playing. So, that middle group is a small one and you have to seek them out (as Bant suggests) not to control them but to draw their attention to you.