What He Truly Wants
Men are notoriously bad communicators when it comes to wanting things, especially emotions, attention, or intimacy. They are usually brought up to suppress what they want which can lead to some of their needs being quite baffling. Here is a list that will help you understand some of the things men want but are too scared to ask for.
1. Genuine Compliments
Guys love compliments too! Tell him you like what he has to say or where he gets his clothes. Tell him you notice he shaved today or that you love how he helps you with things. Even if he doesn’t care about muscles, guys love a good “thank you for doing that.”
2. Space to Be Themselves
Guys love when you let them act like guys. Let them have their guy time where they can play video games, work on their cars, or sit on the couch and watch TV by themselves. Allow them to not have to meet your expectations every minute of the day.
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3. Encouragement Without Pressure
Tell him you know he can do it! We all love a little positive reassurance now and then. Guys just want to hear that you believe in them and that you won’t judge them if they mess up.
4. Physical Affection
Touching your guy doesn’t always have to lead to something spicy. Guys want you to hug them, hold their hand, rub their back every once in a while. It’s the little things that let them know you love them and that you’re there for them.
5. Honest Appreciation for Efforts
Thank your guy for doing the little things. Cook him dinner because you’re hungry too? Say thank you. Fixed the toilet for you? Make sure he knows you appreciate it. Guys want to feel useful and that they’re helping you.
6. Someone Who Listens Without Fixing
Men love when you just listen to them. Don’t try and fix their problems or offer a solution. Women are so good at solving problems but sometimes guys just need you to listen.
7. Validation for Vulnerability
Men hate feeling vulnerable. They don’t want to seem weak so they hide it. But guys secretly want you to know that sometimes they feel vulnerable too. Let them open up to you and when they do, don’t make jokes about how scared they are.
8. Fun and Playfulness
Guys love when you get silly with them and don’t take life too seriously. Laugh at the dumb jokes they make and go on adventures with them. Life is short so enjoy every minute of it together!
9. Respect for Their Passions
You might think his hobbies are weird, but they are his interests and sometimes even passions. Ask them questions about the things they like to do and show interest. It may seem silly to you but those things mean the world to them.
10. A Partner Who Initiates
Guys sit around and wait wondering if you want them to make a move. They want you to want to be with them but don’t know how to ask. Guys secretly love when you make a move whether it be for kissing or going on a date.
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11. Shared Silence
Guys love when you don’t feel weird about hanging out together and not talking. Sit on the couch and do your own thing. Don’t feel the need to fill silence because it’s kind of nice every now and then.
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12. Simple Acts of Thoughtfulness
Bring your guy his favorite snack without him asking for it or leave him a note telling him you’ll see him later. Guys may not say it but they notice the little things that you do for them. If you can think of a random thing you’d like him to do for you, chances are he likes it the other way around too.
13. Emotional Safety
Men want you to know that it's ok to feel whatever you are feeling. They don’t want you to be afraid to tell them how your day was because you are worried they will judge you. Guys want you to know that they would never judge you for feeling emotions.
14. Humor That Hits Home
Who doesn’t love having inside jokes with the person you're spending your life with? Guys love when you two share the same weird jokes and things that make you laugh. A shared sense of humor helps build this even further.
15. Recognition Beyond Looks
Yes, intimacy is important, but guys want you to know they are interested in more than just that. Tell him you love how he listens or that he is so creative. Men love when we notice the little things about them that aren’t just skin deep.
16. Space to Protect and Provide
Whether it’s providing or protecting women, guys love to feel needed. Guys secretly want to know that they can provide and protect you if they had to. Even if it’s just a hypothetical, it helps them feel like they can be there for you when you need them the most.
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17. Affection in Public
Believe it or not, men actually like a cheeky kiss or a quirky squeeze in public. Holding hands is cute and all, but a kiss under a beautiful tree in the park shows him that you are happy and proud to be with him, no matter who sees it. It can be as subtle as a hug, but it makes him feel loved.
18. Surprises That Show You Know Them
Surprise your man with something he would love! I’m not talking about buying him expensive gifts. Did he mention that new video game he wanted? Get it for him and surprise him!
19. Encouragement to Chase Goals
Everyone wants to know that their feelings are heard. Whether he’s talking about his fears or goals in life. Let him know that you believe in him and that you will support him!
20. Being Trusted With Their True Self
Men want you to trust them with who they really are. Let them be themselves around you and show them your true colors as well. Nothing is better than being comfortable showing your true self to your partner.
