9 traits and characteristics that guys identify when asked to describe the “ideal” girlfriend or wife
1. Independence and Self-Reliance
Times are changing and traditional gender roles are rapidly disappearing, but some parents still tend to take an overprotective and sheltered approach when raising a daughter.
This can result in a lack of real-world experience and independence when women reach adulthood, meaning they tend to lean on boyfriends and husbands. Men much prefer a woman who can live on her own, support herself, and be successful in life without any assistance from others.
2. Femininity and a Lady–Like Demeanor
Guys like a woman who makes her man feel “manly.” Guys like it when women share their interests, but they’d much prefer their girlfriends be sexy and feminine than a tom-boy. At times that means being somewhat submissive and being the nurturing and caring one in the relationship.
3. Confidence and Self-Esteem
While confidence is typically talked about as a trait that women love in their man, the opposite is also true.
Men don’t want to be constantly asked, “do I look fat in this dress?” or “do you think I look pretty?”
We all need reassurance at times, but overall self-confidence is a universally desirable trait that men definitely find sexy.
4. Ambition and a Desire to Succeed
Most men identify ambition and a drive to achieve personal goals as an important characteristic. That doesn’t mean you have to be a rocket scientist or movie star to find a great guy, but it does mean you need to have goals and work towards achieving them.
5. Social and Able to Hold a Conversation
If you’ve got a lot of friends and an active social life, it’s a clear signal that other people like you and want to be around you. Most guys like a woman who has a social life and enjoys talking and being around others.
6. Polite, Civilized, and Cultured
Men won’t be scared away just because you swear occasionally and don’t know how to use chopsticks, but they definitely prefer a woman who can be polite, sophisticated, and culturally aware. That means you’re experienced enough to know how to behave in all social situations and you’re well-versed in the ways of the world.
7. Fun, Playful, and Spontaneous
Just like you want your man to know how to have a good time and occasionally do something spontaneous and fun, the same can be said for men.
A random skinny dipping session on a winter’s day every now and then can really go a long way to maintaining a fun and happy relationship!
8. Dedicated to Taking Care of Yourself
Every guy appreciates it when their girlfriend or wife cares about her appearance and doesn’t want to “let themselves go” when they feel comfortable in a relationship.
Your man will love you even if you gain a few pounds and don’t always wear a mini-skirt, but he’ll also really appreciate you putting in the effort required to maintain your appearance.
9. Devoted and Loving
Men want to find a partner who is devoted, caring, and willing to give all of her heart to the man she loves.
