The Intimidation Factor: Men Are Afraid to Date Me
Description
My mom always tells me not to fall in love by myself. “La peor cosa del mundo es enamorarse sola.” She would While speaking to a close male friend of mine, the usual subject of “why Jeanine is still single” came up. “I’m the nicest human being ever,” I said while continuing to describe my angelic ways. “I’m really polite, I share my food – if I like you – and if I REALLY like you, I may even shave my legs before coming over.” You know you’re really into someone if you invest time in shaving. “So I just can’t understand why a good catch like myself has such a hard time finding a decent man.”
Kevin then popped my bubble. “It’s clear to me that you love to intelligently tell people off.” In laments term, I have a way of telling men that “they ain’t shit” without actually cursing. And that probably freaks men out.
For once in my life, I had no response. Truthfully, he was right. I am very outspoken and assertive – online and off. I have a unique way of expressing my thoughts, which sometimes involves putting people in their place while trying to keep my ratcheness is check.
I remember one guy telling me that he felt my intelligence, education, looks and my strong stance on the effort that it takes to uphold a relationship kept him from approaching me. He thought I was too smart and too assertive to be approached. I was floored. These are some of the qualities that I love about myself and I can’t fathom the thought that these very traits are driving interested men away.
I am not nasty to men. I am also not one of those women who feels she doesn’t need a man. On the contrary, I feel that I do. Not to complete me rather to compliment me. However, if a man isn’t willing to be a loyal companion to me, he can kick rocks. It isn’t going to make or break me.
I really feel that’s what intimidates men. Knowing that a woman isn’t willing to do everything and anything it takes to get a man, and that it requires some effort on their part.
Many times the intimidation factor comes from a man’s insecurities. He is uncertain that he can live up to his perceived notions of the woman he is courting.
I can’t see myself catering to the needs of a man who is intimidated by me. I just don’t have the time or energy to waste to convince a man that I am not a scary, single woman monster. Rather than feel intimidated, men should embrace women for their intelligence, strength, assertiveness and beauty. And we should never change the beautiful qualities that make us who we are, even if that means remaining single a while longer.
