Many men are drawn to strong, empowered women. Few know what to expect once they manage to catch one. A confident and independent woman acts differently from others. She may want you, but she doesn’t need you. She respects your needs, but she won’t let her own be forgotten. She will not compromise her values, ambitions, and morals for anyone’s sake. She will not be your doormat, and she does not want you to become hers.
Strong Women Terrify Men Because They Are Not Afraid to Leave
Here’s some advice for keeping the empowered woman in your life happy:
- Expect you will have to work for her trust. Earn it by being honest, dependable, and respectful.
Example: If you say you’ll call her at 8 PM, do it. Consistency builds trust. - Allow her to be vulnerable with you, but don’t demand it.
Example: Instead of pressuring her to open up, create a safe space where she feels comfortable sharing her feelings at her own pace. - Show her that she can trust you to keep her deepest secrets. Make it clear that her most private thoughts, feelings, and moments will stay that way with you.
Example: If she shares a personal story, don’t joke about it with friends. Show her you value her trust. - Don’t play games. Operate with honesty.
Example: Be direct about your feelings and intentions, whether it’s about the future of your relationship or small decisions like where to go for dinner. - When she takes responsibility for her part in an argument, you should do the same. It is rarely a one-way street.
Example: After a disagreement, say, “I see how my reaction might have upset you. Let’s work on this together.” - When she challenges your ideas and opinions, don’t get defensive. This is a sign that she respects you.
Example: If she questions your career goals, see it as an opportunity for growth, not criticism. - Practice gratitude together.
Example: Take time at the end of each week to share what you’re grateful for in your relationship. - Reassure her that even if she doesn’t need you, you are always there to help her. Make it clear that you do not think any less of her when she asks for your support.
Example: Offer to help with a tough work project without making her feel incapable. - Celebrate her accomplishments.
Example: Surprise her with a thoughtful gesture, like flowers or a note, when she achieves a career milestone. - When she fails, praise her efforts. Help her identify what she learned and gained from the experience.
Example: If she doesn’t get the promotion she wanted, remind her of her hard work and encourage her to try again. - Help her to make a positive impact in the community. Volunteer together. Strong women love passionate men.
Example: Join her for a charity event or support her cause by volunteering your time. - Give her spiritual practices a chance. Be honest if they do not ring true to who you are. Respect and support her in pursuing them, even if you do not share her beliefs.
Example: If she meditates daily, join her once to understand why it’s important to her. - Respect her boundaries.
Example: If she says she needs a quiet evening alone, don’t take it personally. - Realize that actions speak much more loudly than words. Don’t just apologize when you are wrong. Change your behavior.
Example: If you’re consistently late, apologize and set an alarm to ensure it doesn’t happen again. - Share your ambitions with her. Allow her to help you reach them.
Example: Discuss your career goals and let her offer ideas or encouragement. - Ask about her career goals. Keep track of the progress she is making. Praise and recognize her hard work, no matter what the results.
Example: If she’s working on a big presentation, ask how it’s going and offer to help rehearse. - Be clear about your expectations. Discuss the future of your relationship with honesty and transparency. Strong women appreciate straightforward men.
Example: Share your vision for the relationship instead of avoiding the “where is this going?” conversation. - Get to know her friends and family members.
Example: Make an effort to build connections with the people she cares about. - Don’t be offended when she asks for alone time to recharge.
Example: Encourage her to spend a weekend with her friends or have a self-care day. - Encourage her to care for herself.
Example: Suggest activities that help her relax, like a spa day or yoga class. - Refuse to gossip about other people. This looks petty and weak to a confident woman.
Example: If someone tries to engage you in gossip, redirect the conversation to something positive.
Recommended Resources for Understanding and Supporting Strong Women
Books:
- The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown – A guide to embracing vulnerability and building stronger relationships.
- Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus by John Gray – A classic on understanding the differences between men and women in relationships.
- Daring Greatly by Brené Brown – Insights into how vulnerability can strengthen connections and trust.
Films:
- Hidden Figures – The story of three empowered women breaking barriers in NASA.
- Erin Brockovich – A tale of a strong woman fighting for justice while navigating challenges.
- The Devil Wears Prada – A look at the balance between ambition and personal relationships.
Influencers:
- Esther Perel: Relationship expert focusing on connection and communication.
- Jay Shetty: Offers practical advice on emotional intelligence and mindful relationships.
- Matthew Hussey: Known for his guidance on dating and understanding modern relationships.
Closing Thoughts
“Do not bring people in your life who weigh you down. And trust your instincts … good relationships feel good. They feel right. They don’t hurt. They’re not painful. That’s not just with somebody you want to marry, but it’s with the friends that you choose. It’s with the people you surround yourselves with.” – Michelle Obama
Be a person who makes your empowered woman feel good. She will do the most incredible things with you by her side.