Lisa O
Men may not always express their feelings openly, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have them. In many cases, they’ve been taught to hide emotions, keep struggles to themselves, and avoid showing vulnerability. Because of this, there are many things men wish women understood about them—things they don’t always say out loud. Here are 10 things men secretly wish women knew about them.
They Feel Deeply, Even If They Don’t Show It
Just because a man doesn’t cry or openly talk about his emotions doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel things just as deeply as anyone else. Many men have been raised to suppress their emotions, so their sadness, stress, or anxiety may come out in different ways—through silence, distraction, or even frustration. They wish women understood that just because they don’t say something doesn’t mean they aren’t feeling it.
Compliments Mean the World to Them
Women often hear compliments about their appearance, outfits, or personality, but men rarely do. A simple “You look great today” or “I appreciate everything you do” can stick with a man for days, even weeks. Most men secretly wish women knew how much a kind word means to them. They may not always react dramatically to compliments, but theyappreciate them more than they let on.
They Worry About Not Being Good Enough
Many men struggle with self-doubt, even if they don’t talk about it. Whether it’s about their career, appearance, or ability to provide, men often feel pressure to measure up. Society has placed high expectations on them to be strong, successful, and confident, even when they don’t feel that way. They wish women understood that beneath the surface, they sometimes feel just as insecure as anyone else.
They Want Emotional Support, Too
Men are often expected to be the strong, stable ones in a relationship, but they also have moments of weakness. They may not always know how to ask for help, but they appreciate when a woman provides comfort and reassurance without making them feel judged. A simple “I’ve got your back” or “You don’t have to do everything alone” can mean more than words can express.
They Show Love in Different Ways
Not all men are naturally expressive with words, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love deeply. Some men express love through actions—fixing things, taking care of responsibilities, or making sure their partner is safe. Just because he doesn’t say “I love you” every day doesn’t mean he isn’t showing it in other ways. Many men wish women recognized the little things they do as signs of love.
They Get Lonely, Too
Women often have strong support systems, with friends and family they can confide in. Many men don’t have the same emotional outlets. They may struggle with loneliness but hesitate to admit it. Sometimes, they just need someone to check in on them, ask how they’re really doing, and remind them that they aren’t alone. They wish women understood that just because they don’t say it doesn’t mean they don’t feel it.
They Hate Feeling Like They Have to “Read Minds”
Men often struggle to pick up on unspoken messages, and it’s not because they don’t care. Many wish women would just say what they mean instead of expecting them to figure it out. They genuinely want to make their partner happy but often feel frustrated when they’re expected to guess what’s wrong or what’s needed. Clear, direct communication makes everything easier.
They Want to Be Appreciated for More Than What They Provide
Many men feel like they are only valued for what they can offer—whether it’s financial stability, protection, or problem-solving. While they take pride in these roles, they also want to be appreciated for who they are, not just what they do. They wish women recognized their emotional depth, their dreams, and their struggles, not just their ability to provide.
They Struggle to Talk About Their Feelings
It’s not that men don’t have emotions—it’s that many were raised to believe expressing them is a sign of weakness. They may want to talk about their stress, fears, or sadness, but they don’t always know how. They wish women understood that just because they aren’t opening up doesn’t mean they don’t want support. Sometimes, patience and a judgment-free space are all they need.
They Love Feeling Needed, Even in Small Ways
Men may act independent, but deep down, they love feeling needed and appreciated. Whether it’s fixing something, being asked for advice, or simply being relied on, they find purpose in contributing. They don’t want to be treated like they have to do everything, but they appreciate when a woman values their presence and trusts them with certain things. Feeling useful makes them feel valued.