A lot of guys like to write women off as “too complicated” to understand — it’s not true, of course; it’s an excuse too many dudes use to avoid having to actually put effort into figuring out what it takes to make us happy. Luckily for you, I’m here to shed some light on exactly what you can do to make a woman happy, and it’s pretty simple: just show us that you actually give a crap.
- Put in a little effort. We like being treated well — give us genuine compliments, love and support. That’s pretty much the deal. Who doesn’t love all those things? It’s pretty intuitive if you think about it. Just treat us like human beings that you care for and respect. Duh.
- Don’t be afraid to be a big softy. Guys often forget to follow this very simple rule. When in doubt, be sweet to us. We like tenderness and softness, especially when we least expect it. We won’t take it for granted. We’ve been treated like crap by too many other men — we’ll appreciate it so much more because of that.
- Let us know we’re appreciated. We like being told we’re amazing, just like any other human on the planet would. Compliments are always welcome! It’s not difficult to do, yet so many guys just don’t bother. It’s pretty ridiculous. So easy and yet it doesn’t happen.
- Be verbally affectionate. We love to be told we’re loved. It’s that simple. Tell us you love us and that we’re wonderful and amazing and intelligent and accomplished. Tell us we can do and be anything we want because we’re the most awesome creatures on earth. Say anything loving as long as it’s genuine and from the heart.
- Be physically affectionate. It’s not like we want to be mauled in public, but there’s nothing wrong with affectionate gestures. Hold our hands. Caress our shoulders. Act proud to be with us, and happy that you have the privilege of physical contact with us.
- Don’t say something once and think the work is complete. Oh, this is not a one-compliment-and-done situation. A relationship requires continual work, and that work includes verbal affection and reinforcement. We may know that there’s a lot of love between us, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t want to hear it too.
- Make thoughtful gestures. It’s the little things that count. We’ll never be mad about sweet, caring acts that let us know we are loved. Leave a cute love note. Bring home our favorite flowers, or snack, or wine. Remember the little details of something we said weeks ago.
- Tell us we’re cared for. Don’t just show us, tell us as well. We will express our love every day — do the same in return. Don’t take it for granted. Don’t take US for granted.
- Listen to what we say. Perhaps the most loving thing anyone can do is truly listen to another person. Most just pretend to listen and wait for a moment to jump in and speak. We want to be heard, and we can tell the difference.
- If something upsets us, change it. Relationships require communication and compromise. There will be conflicts and issues — it happens. It’s one thing if it’s a minor problem, but if something really hurts us, try to fix it. We’ll appreciate it for sure.
- Take care of us. This doesn’t have to be literal. Take care of our minds and spirits as well as our bodies. Nurture us and help us grow. Let us know that we’re safe and that we can be our true selves. Give us unconditional love and support.
- Take charge once in a while. Yes, we’re strong and independent, but sometimes we feel the strain. Give us a break when we need it and do so without making us feel weak or patronized. Sometimes we forget that we’re still human and need a rest.
- Lighten the load. If we’re stressed and overwhelmed, offer to help however necessary. We’ll appreciate being noticed and considered, especially when we’re feeling overwhelmed. This is a partnership and we’ll be so grateful for the demonstration that it’s indeed a two-way street.
- Show pride in us. We know that we’re rad, but it doesn’t hurt to be reminded once in a while, especially by someone we care about. We will give all the love in the world to the guys who will stand up next to us and beam with happiness to be there.
- Make sure we know how much you care. If we make sweet gestures, acknowledge it. When we put in work, admire it. When we compromise or sacrifice for the relationship, appreciate it. We are so full of love and so willing to give. We just want the right guys to receive that fountain of affection.
