5 old-fashioned things women wish men would do more often

A confident woman is an attractive woman, and who wouldn’t want to date or marry a confident woman?

Well, gentlemen, let me tell you that you can help a lady’s self-confidence, or you can crush it with the good times she has planned for you, in the blink of an eye – all by having (or bringing back, in some cases) good, old-fashioned manners.

Women beg men to bring back these old-fashioned customs – once considered good manners; chivalry, RIP – things like listening attentively without a phone in your face, and showing basic attention. As dating norms and relationship expectations have evolved, these timeless gestures cost nothing but good manners and will pay off when it comes to attracting a great partner.

Here are old-fashioned things women wish men with good manners would do more often:

1. Stop teasing

We’re no longer in primary school, where showing affection and attracting women’s attention was teasing. Teasing and poking them is not what we want.

Psychologist Dr. Amanda Buduris warns about this “Teasing in a relationship can be a double-edged sword: it can promote connection or cause emotional damage. Men should prioritize open, honest communication and take into account a person’s sensitivities and past experiences.”

2. Compliment her sincerely

Women want to be complimentedeven if it’s as simple as saying, “You look beautiful today.” If you find yourself stumbling over words, it’s a sign that you’re doing too much. Simple and sweet is always best.

3. Boost her style (and comfort)

Most women don’t dress for men. We dress for ourselves, and we dress for comfort (especially after we have kids). Have you ever noticed that when women try on clothes, they check how their butt looks, as well as the top half? It’s about what’s in our minds. And it’s up to you to continue to encourage us, or at least validate us when we ask you to.

Depending on the woman, when she asks, “How does this look on me?” Make sure you choose your answers wisely. “A common response is to reassure your loved one that they are beautiful – and that’s a good start – but for some people this can make things worse,” body image therapist Ashlee Hunt warns. She recommends, “Focus on sharing the qualities of those that have nothing to do with their body or appearance,” for example, her quirky-cool style or how well she always does her makeup.

4. Give her time to grow

supportive man who increases the woman's self-confidence Getty Images / Unsplash+

When you meet a developing woman, make sure you hold on tight because she will definitely take you for a ride – the sky is limitless. Let a woman grow at her own pace and remember: plants that are watered grow fastest and tallest.

5. Turn off your phone every now and then and focus on her

Can you put your phone down? every now and then? What we have to offer you is much more than ESPN or YouTube or gambling apps or whatever TikTok reel you’ve watched on autoplay six times in a row, we promise.

Gentlemen: If you stick to all these old-fashioned ways, you’ll have a confident partner who will not only keep you on your toes, but will also take care of you and your needs – and offer you the same old-fashioned respect.

Holly Dresson writes about mental health. Since 2018, she has been speaking on the topics of self-love, mental health, personal development and parental equality.