Don't use the other person as an example. Know their limits and desires, and ensure you're compatible, but at the end of the day - do what you do, don't base your content off of what other people do. 

Reading multiple types of media can be very useful, as is writing short stories independently of roleplaying. For me, at least.

I have similar problems myself, so I can't give you the knockout tip. I'd suggest trying to find an optimal "high casual" roleplay as that seems to be the best fit for what you describe (might take a while to find one that hits your interest) or invest in a 1x1 roleplay with someone who is "fitting" enough; I'm sure there's one out there.