Women are complex and multidimensional (obviously — ha!), and there are countless things that many men don’t really “get” about us.
While every woman is unique, there are common traits, habits, and feelings that we experience, and learning about them can improve relationships and help men understand us a bit better. These aren’t exactly rocket science, but for some reason, most men still don’t understand these things unless they’re pointed out.
1. Women need emotional validation, not just physical attention.
While physical affection is important, emotional validation is often what women truly crave. Feeling understood and valued for who we are, not just how we look, is crucial to a woman’s sense of security and connection in a relationship.
2. Women often feel pressure to be everything to everyone.
From societal expectations to family dynamics, women are often expected to juggle multiple roles—partner, mother, friend, employee—while maintaining a sense of perfection. This pressure can be exhausting and leave them feeling unappreciated at times.
3. Women are often better at multitasking than men realise.
Women have an innate ability to juggle multiple tasks at once. Whether it’s managing work, handling household chores, or taking care of children, many women are doing several things simultaneously, which often goes unnoticed.
4. Women value communication more than you think.
Good communication is a cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and women tend to value open, honest conversations. While men may prefer to solve problems quickly, women appreciate the process of talking things through to feel emotionally connected.
5. Women notice the little things you do (or don’t do).
While it may seem like we don’t notice, women tend to pay attention to the small details that show you care—whether it’s remembering something we mentioned in passing or helping out without being asked. These small acts of kindness make a big impact.
6. Women experience emotions differently, and that’s okay.
Women may express our emotions more openly than men, but that doesn’t mean we’re overly emotional. Emotional expression is a natural way for women to process our feelings, and it’s important to understand and respect our emotional range.
7. Women need time for themselves to recharge.
Women often give so much of themselves to other people—whether it’s in relationships, work, or family—that we sometimes forget to take time for self-care. A woman who values time to herself to unwind, reflect, or simply be alone is not selfish, but rather prioritising her mental and emotional health.
8. Women are sensitive to feeling undervalued.
Whether it’s in a relationship or at work, women are particularly sensitive to being overlooked or undervalued. Showing appreciation for our contributions, whether emotional, financial, or physical, can make all the difference in how secure and confident we feel.
9. Women appreciate vulnerability in men.
While many men are taught to be stoic or hide their feelings, women tend to appreciate men who can be open and vulnerable about their emotions. Showing your softer side helps creates trust and deeper emotional connections.
10. Women tend to be more critical of themselves than anyone else is.
Many women are our own harshest critics, whether it’s about our appearance, abilities, or decisions. While we may seem confident, it’s common for women to have insecurities and self-doubt that we don’t often voice. Support and encouragement from partners can go a long way in easing these worries.
11. Women often feel the weight of being judged for our choices.
From career choices to personal appearance, women often feel judged for our decisions, whether we’re working outside the home or choosing not to. All that external pressure can weigh heavily on women, and we appreciate support and understanding, rather than criticism or assumptions.
12. Women want you to remember the little things.
It’s the small gestures that often mean the most. Whether it’s remembering her favourite flower, celebrating small milestones, or making a thoughtful comment, these little acts of remembering are what make a woman feel truly special and appreciated.
13. Women often think about the future (sometimes more than men do).
Women tend to think about the long-term future, whether it’s regarding relationships, family, or personal goals. While men might focus on the here and now, women can be more inclined to think about where things are heading, which can be misunderstood as being overly concerned or anxious.
14. Women value honesty over perfection.
Many women would rather hear the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable, than have things sugar-coated or hidden. Honesty fosters trust and emotional intimacy, and women often prefer it to trying to maintain an image of perfection.
15. Women need emotional security to feel truly safe in a relationship.
Emotional security is the foundation of any strong relationship for a woman. Feeling secure in her partner’s commitment, knowing that she’s loved and valued for who she is, is critical to her emotional well-being and sense of stability in the relationship.
