Uncensored Guide to Understanding Women

With the surge of mobile dating apps, looking for love in this digital age, can seem utterly impossible. I mean, when there are a plethora of options just waiting at your fingertips, it’s no wonder that we encounter so many individuals who make a piss poor effort in creating real relationships. And although there are plenty of us who aren’t on dating apps, I argue this culture of convenience and the paradox of choice has influenced our dating experiences in some adverse way. On the contrary, when we meet someone who puts forth the effort and time, it likely feels like a breath of fresh air.

In fact, I’d go as far as saying there is this general lackadaisical dating ideology. Why put forth true effort into a person when there will always be more options? It’s almost as if this burden of choice has taught us to treat each other like disposable objects, rather than beings who feel.

My girlfriends and I are constantly sharing our experiences, discussing what we like and don’t like when it comes to dating and often times we find ourselves saying, “If only we could make a PSA about this!”

Well….this post is by no means intended to bash on men, but rather a guide into women’s dating preferences.

I can’t even count the amount of times, I’ve heard men say, “Women are so complicated, what even pleases you guys?”

So, I conducted a small survey to gather varied responses from ladies my age.

The question posed: Based off of your dating experiences, what male behaviors do you appreciate/can do without?”

Appreciated behavior:

1. When plans are made 
   • Whether it be a formal dinner date or even a casual hang out, taking the initiative – shows us that there is interest and direction in the “relationship”
2.  Manners, chivalry, compliments
   • “Please” and “thank yous”  – aka basic etiquette can go a longgg way.
   • It’s actually quite refreshing when doors are opened, the meal is paid for, and when pleasant comments are given.
3. Tons of eye contact/ not easily distracted
   • It is especially appreciated when phones are kept tucked away during the date
4. Remembering the little things 
   • This is just a simple indicator that you’ve taken the time to listen.
5. Reciprocity 
   • Returning the kindness in any capacity is so attractive!
6. Common courtesy/open communication
   • MAJOR KEY!!!
   • Letting us know if you can’t make it out for dinner or whatever the plans are, totally okay!
   • Expressing your feelings and intentions towards the “relationship”…yaaas!
   • Being vulnerable and open in sharing personal details/struggles

Behavior we can do without:

1. Surface level conversations
   • Regardless of the extent of the “relationship,” this is a huge red flag. If you’re not concerned with getting to know who your “partner” is on a deeper level, then that’s a clear indicator of your intentions.
2. Flakiness
   • Don’t be that person who commits to something, then changes plans last minute. What is especially infuriating is when it is done without notice. If you can’t make it, don’t commit.
3. Not responding in a timely manner 
   • THIS! THIS! THIS! The way you communicate with someone is very indicative of how you prioritize them in your life. If you’re into someone, you’ll find the time to respond to them, appropriately.
   • And if you’re going to be tied up throughout the day, a simple text will suffice.
4. Lack of self-awareness 
   • This can be so apparent in literally the first minute of a conversation.
     • (e.g.) Mentioning your ex on the first date
       • Taking up the entire conversation
       • Speaking as if you’re hanging out with the boys
5. Insecurities
   • We all know that people who are insecure tend to sabotage a healthy relationship…
   • I’ve met multiple men who have openly admitted to suddenly ending a “relationship,” solely because “it was going toooo well.”
6. Social media etiquette
   • If you are single and dating, there is no reason why you should still have posted pictures with your ex…not cute
   • Liking and commenting on other girls’ photos while actively seeing someone else

Whoo! Fellas! Now that you’ve heard the ladies’ input, my hopes are that you’ve somehow been enlightened. You may disagree with some of the points listed, and that’s totally fine, but the aim of this post was to visualize the dichotomy of dating behaviors. Hope this helps 🙂