Understanding the opposite gender can sometimes feel like cracking an unsolvable puzzle. While it’s true that every person is unique, some things women do often leave men scratching their heads. To shed some light on this, we’ve listed the 20 things that women do that most confuse men.
Talking About Feelings
Psychology Today reveals that “emotional fluency is discouraged” in men as they grow older. Women often find comfort and clarity in discussing their feelings with friends or partners, but for men, this might seem like over-sharing or even unnecessary. For many women, talking about emotions helps them process and understand their experiences better.
Asking Questions They Already Know the Answer To
It might seem puzzling when a woman asks a question she already knows the answer to. This isn’t about testing you or catching you off guard. Often, it’s a way for her to confirm details or get reassurance, and it’s also a means of engaging in conversation and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Taking Ages to Get Ready
Many men wonder how women can spend so much time getting ready, yet it’s about not just looking good but feeling good, too. The process of getting ready is often a ritual that can boost confidence and provide a moment of self-care. Plus, considering the societal expectations placed on women regarding appearance, it’s understandable that they might take a bit longer to prepare.
Remembering Every Detail
Women often have an incredible memory for details, especially when it comes to relationships and conversations. This ability to remember specifics can seem overwhelming, but it’s often because women pay close attention to the things that matter to them.
Needing to Vent Without Seeking Solutions
When a woman vents about her problems, she’s not always looking for solutions. While men often go straight into fix-it mode, sometimes women just need to express their frustrations and feel understood. Listening and empathising can be more valuable than offering advice.
Shopping as a Hobby
Many women enjoy shopping, not just for the act of buying things but for the experience itself. It’s a social activity, a way to relax, and sometimes even a therapeutic escape. However, for men who view shopping as a utilitarian task, this can be perplexing.
Talking on the Phone for Hours
Long phone conversations can baffle men, who prefer quick and to-the-point communication. But, for women, chatting on the phone is a way to maintain close relationships, share experiences, and offer mutual support. It’s not just about exchanging information but about bonding and emotional connection.
Multitasking Like a Pro
Often adept at juggling multiple tasks simultaneously, women can come across as spreading themselves too thin, but many have honed this skill out of necessity. Balancing work, home, and personal life requires a level of multi-tasking that can be impressive and bewildering to men.
Decorating Everything
Women often have a knack for decorating, including homes and workspaces. This desire to create a pleasant and aesthetically pleasing environment might seem excessive, but it’s often about creating a space that feels comfortable and reflects their personality. It’s a form of self-expression and a way to make any place feel like home.
Keeping Detailed Planners
The detailed planners and to-do lists many women maintain can seem over-the-top, but they are crucial for staying organised and managing the many aspects of their lives. This meticulous planning helps them feel in control and reduces stress, but for men who might prefer a more spontaneous approach, it can be hard to understand the necessity.
Analysing Text Messages
Women often spend time analysing the nuances of text messages, trying to read between the lines. This might seem like overthinking, but it’s usually about understanding intent and emotions. Texts can be ambiguous, and women often seek clarity to ensure they’re on the same wavelength as the person they’re communicating with.
Caring Deeply About Birthdays and Anniversaries
Special dates like birthdays and anniversaries hold significant importance for many women, as celebrating these occasions is about honouring relationships and creating lasting memories. Men might see them as just another day, but for women, they are opportunities to show appreciation and love.
Watching Rom-Coms Repeatedly
The appeal of romantic comedies and watching them multiple times can be lost on many men. However, for women, these films often provide a feel-good escape and a sense of comfort. The predictable happy endings and relatable characters make them enjoyable and easy to watch, no matter how many times they’ve been seen.
Asking for Opinions on Outfits
When a woman asks for your opinion on her outfit, she’s seeking reassurance and wanting to share in her excitement—it’s not a trick question but an invitation to be part of her decision-making process. Offering a thoughtful response shows that you care about her feelings and value her appearance.
Carrying Large Handbags
Many men ponder the mystery of the large handbag. Women carry big bags not just for fashion but also for practicality. These bags hold everything they might need throughout the day, including makeup, keys, snacks, and emergency supplies.
Having Lots of Shoes
The extensive shoe collection that many women have can be perplexing to men who might stick to a few pairs, yet shoes for women are not just about function but fashion and self-expression. Different shoes complete different outfits, and having a variety allows for creativity and versatility in their wardrobe.
Being More Indirect in Communication
It’s common for women to communicate in more subtle or indirect ways than men, and this can be confusing. But it’s usually a way of being considerate and avoiding confrontation, and understanding this style of communication requires reading between the lines and paying attention to non-verbal cues.
Expressing Affection Through Small Gestures
Women frequently show affection through small, thoughtful gestures rather than grand actions. These can include remembering your favourite snack, leaving a sweet note, or planning a special date. These gestures might seem minor, but they are meaningful ways of showing love and care.
Taking Things Personally
It’s true that women can sometimes take comments or actions more personally, but this sensitivity is often because they place a high value on their relationships and interactions. Understanding this can help men be more mindful of their words and actions.
Enjoying Pampering and Self-Care
The rituals of pampering and self-care, such as spa days or skincare routines, are more than just indulgence for many women—these activities are essential for maintaining their well-being and mental health. They provide a chance to relax, recharge, and feel good about themselves—which even men should embrace.
