As a girl who likes girls, I'm pretty well-versed in the delicate art of lady love. Unfortunately, as a lot of young women have found that their boyfriends are not as in tune with their wants and needs as they would've hoped. But fear not, I am here to save the day! Ladies, feel free to share the following tips with the men in your life. And guys, if you want to transform yourselves into the swoon-worthy stallions that most gals dream of, listen closely!
1. Try to be more romantic
It's as simple as sending her encouraging text messages when you know she's had a rough day, or surprising her with a few flowers or her favorite cup of coffee on an ordinary day of the week. You don't have to empty your bank account to make a loving gesture that will have her smiling for hours afterward. Just be yourself and be sweet!
2. Show an interest in meeting her friends
I'm not saying you have to pal around with them and go shopping. It's as simple as asking your girlfriend if she'd like to invite a few of her closest friends to lunch or dinner. Or even better, you can organize a hangout with a few of your pals and a few of hers, too!
3. Find something you can do together
You and your girlfriend could really bond if you both partake in the same activity or hobby. Maybe you can both take the same fitness class (or couples' yoga!) or learn the same new skill. Working alongside someone you care about can make the whole experience even more enjoyable.
4. When you give her a gift, make it personal
Make her a playlist full of songs that remind you of her and burn it onto a CD. Create a photo collage from some of your favorite moments. Have your initials or the date you asked her out engraved on a necklace or bracelet. Personalized gifts are truly priceless and show her that your relationship is something that you really cherish.
5. Take the initiative with planning dates
Nothing will make her heart melt faster than learning that you are just as excited about planning a perfect evening out as she is. Go even further and add an air of mystery to it; tell her that you're picking her up at 7, for example, but don't give her any other details that aren't absolutely crucial to her getting ready.
6. Never forget how to give her butterflies
Run your fingers through her hair when you're both relaxing on the couch. Trace your thumb lightly over hers when you hold hands. Gently rest your hands on the sides of her face when you kiss her. The smallest affectionate gestures will never fail to leave her with that warm feeling in her stomach.
7. Support her passions
If your girl is deeply invested in sports, music, art, or any other activity, show her that you are proud of all she has accomplished and will always stand by her in every challenge she encounters. Root for her at competitions, congratulate her victories and console her when she misses the mark.
8. Take care of her when she's sick or hurt
This also includes comforting her when she's suffering from period cramps, guys! Offer to pick her up some food or medicine at the store so she can stay in and rest. And when you get back, I bet she would really love it if you cuddled with her under some blankets and watched movies together.
9. Pay attention to her
Even when the most exciting thing that's happened to her all day is her getting a huge knot in her hair, she will appreciate your attentiveness more than anything. Communication is key to a functioning relationship, and you both have to do your part and listen to each other earnestly.
10. If something isn't right, be honest with her
Every relationship has its ups and downs. When you run into a problem, make sure she knows about it so you can both fix it together. Talk it out and explain what you feel while still being open to her perspective. You're allowed to voice your concerns, too, so don't be afraid to raise questions!
11. Don't forget about your friends
Your girlfriend should be accepting of the fact that you have a social life outside of your romance. Encourage her that spending some time apart is healthy and completely okay; both of your friends are still important people in your lives and they shouldn't be forgotten.
12. Always be there to remind her of how beautiful she is
Her beauty might not be as obvious to her as it is to you. You can reassure her that hers is the only face you notice when you walk in a crowded room. You can tell her how her smile lights you up inside, or how you lose track of time looking into her eyes. Just be honest and say what comes to you naturally!
While you can't be perfect, you can get pretty close to it if you treat your girl like the rare beauty that she truly is. Best of luck, gentlemen.