You’re strong, independent and capable of doing things with you own two hands. You’re not a damsel in distress and you don’t need a guy in your life, but that doesn’t mean dating is easy for you or that guys recognize your status as a total badass right off the bat. Sometimes, you have to show them who they’re dealing with and demand respect by doing these 10 things:
- BE DECISIVE. Nothing opens you up to being walked all over quite like being indecisive. When you can’t make decisions, it tells guys that you don’t know what you want or you just can’t handle being in charge. In general, men know what they want and have a plan to get there. You don’t have to have everything figured out but get to know what you like and don’t like — develop goals and your plans to achieve them. Not being afraid to make decisions and take the lead is not only super attractive to guys but also instantly earns you respect in their books.
- SET BOUNDARIES. If you aren’t setting boundaries, you’re setting guys up to walk all over you. If he’s already into you, he’s probably trying to feel out where you draw the line on things. Newsflash: you can’t wait until you’re in the situation to decide what you’re comfortable with and what you won’t tolerate. You’ll end up compromising your values and your comfort zone by not knowing where you stand. If a guy crosses the line with you, whether it be on a date, in an office setting or even on the street, it’s important that you stand up for yourself. Bonus: Men totally respect when you are up front about an issue with them and don’t beat around the bush. Don’t be afraid to speak up!
- ROCK YOUR INDEPENDENCE. You’d be amazed how little it actually takes to impress guys. Can you change your own tire? Do you pay all of your bills on time and save money? Can you pick up a wrench and fix your leaky faucet? Guys show mad respect to girls who can do the things that guys are expected to do for them. Chances are, your guy will want to help you do these things, but it’s totally respectable that you’re able to take care of yourself without his help.
- BE TRULY CONFIDENT. Guys can sense a lack of confidence as soon as a girl walks in the room. They look for it in each other and they’ll most definitely look for it in you. You don’t have to pretend to be something you’re not or act like the center of attention if that just isn’t you. You just have to be honest about yourself and be cool with it. Not every guy will fall in love with you and what you’re about, but they’ll sure respect the heck out of you for embracing who you are and not caring what anyone else thinks about it.
- BE WELL-ROUNDED. Just like girls, guys have stereotypes about what we are like, what we’re into, what we want. Being a well-rounded person with lots of interests and skills helps you break tiny glass ceilings with every guy you meet. You can love pumpkin spice lattes and UGG boots and guys won’t bat an eye, but say you’re into trail running or selling crafts you make or have a rad side-hustle, you turn heads. Guys see themselves as dynamic but often forget that we are too. When you take the time to develop different interests, guys respect that you aren’t just one thing.
- CUT THE ATTITUDE. I promise this tip will help you in many different aspects of your life — don’t have an attitude. Even if you’re put together, confident, independent and successful, no one will respect you if you throw attitude all day long. Being a diva usually makes people think you are immature or can’t control yourself — guys will assume they have to babysit you, not truly respect you. Confidence is key, but don’t think you have to be loud and pushy to get your point across.
- STAY HUMBLE. There’s a fine line between being confident and being cocky, and you definitely don’t want to end up being the latter. I’m all for girl power and being capable but it’s okay to know your limits. This tells guys that yes, I’m able to do things on my own but I know I’m not a master of everything. If you’re not totally confident doing something on your own, it’s okay to ask for help. Guys love to be helpful and when the call for assistance is coming from an independent woman, they feel honored to be asked to help.
- KEEP YOUR STYLE TASTEFUL. Men should respect you no matter what you’re wearing but there are definitely ways to dress that get you noticed and respected. No matter what your personal style is, aim to wear things that fit your body well and look polished. Taking the time to look pulled together says you have your ducks in a row and care about your appearance. You’re more likely to be taken seriously when your appearance says grown woman who can take care of herself.
- PRACTICE GOOD POSTURE. I seriously can’t stress this enough. POSTURE. IS. EVERYTHING. You communicate so much through body language, so it is crucial to master it. If you’re slumped over in your chair, you’re telling those around you that you lack confidence or want to appear smaller. Girl, throw those shoulders back and strut with your head high! Not only will the men around you notice, but they’ll immediately know that you’re a force to be reckoned with and should be treated as such.
- BE FEARLESS. Don’t be afraid to try new things and step outside of your box. Guys totally size each other’s bravery up when they hang out together, so why not surprise them and be the biggest dare devil in the room? Whether it’s eating new food or taking up a new hobby you’ve never tried, guys respect that you’re willing to put yourself out there and not sit on the sidelines of new adventures.
