A bad marriage to a selfish man is a terrible thing; I have been there. But I do not see what you see in most of the couples I know. They range in age from fifties to eighties. The husbands take excellent care of their wives and share household chores. Many of them are deeply in love after decades of togetherness.
As for me, I’m glad I persevered in finding the right partner after my first marriage failed. Every day with him is a joy.
I know everyone is not this lucky, but there’s nothing wrong with going for something that is really important to you. For some it’s independence and for others it’s relationships.