Revealing men's most hidden, adorable, and unexpected desires
Many men might present a tough exterior, but underneath, they often have a playful, affectionate side that they keep to themselves. The little things you do make a bigger impact than they let on. That’s why we consulted expert dating coaches to share the things men adore but won’t express, as well as their unspoken desires in relationships.
Steps
Things Guys Secretly Love but Won't Admit

1. When you borrow their hoodies. Men find it irresistibly cute when you wear their oversized hoodies. It makes them feel closer to you, knowing you're wrapped up in their clothes. Just remember to give it back eventually.
2. When you talk about their zodiac sign. While we may roll our eyes when you mention “cusp,” we secretly enjoy it. Who doesn’t like hearing something flattering about themselves? If you mention that we're a match based on our signs, it’s an instant ego boost.
3. Being asked for help or advice. While we’re not generalizing masculinity, it’s true that many men enjoy feeling like they can provide for those they care about. Whether it’s opening a tough jar or reaching something from a high shelf, helping out makes us feel useful and proud.
4. Listening to your music. It’s not that men can’t appreciate a good Swift song, but it’s often not their go-to genre. When you take the aux cord, put on some classics, and give them a reason to vibe, they’re totally in. Extra points if you encourage them to sing along.
5. When you praise them in public. Dating expert Imad Jbara explains, “The most attractive thing a girl can do is build up our egos.” We might stay humble, but we’ll never turn down a little admiration every now and then.
6. Head and back massages. A mini massage goes a long way, and we’re all about relieving some tension in our shoulders. Scritch-scratch away!
7. Getting their eyebrows tweezed. Men need some self-care too, even if they don’t always make it a priority. When you break out the tweezers and take care of their brows, they may complain, but they won’t object.
8. Receiving cute nicknames. Men love affectionate nicknames and compliments, and the sweeter, the better. Dating coach John Keegan suggests these terms: “Adorable, cute, handsome, sweet, sexy, cool, fun, creative, masculine.”
9. When you ask their opinion on your outfit. We know you’re probably already decided on your look, but we love being involved. And any excuse to give you a compliment is a win in our book.
10. Good morning and goodnight texts. It’s not a nuisance; it’s the best part of our day. Receiving a text from you right when we wake up and before bed is a simple joy. Don’t hesitate to send that good morning text.
11. When you rest on their chest. Men don’t always admit they crave closeness, but when you lie on their chest, just chilling together, it’s pure contentment.
12. Being the little spoon. While many guys love being the protective big spoon, sometimes, they want to be the one who’s cared for. Studies show that men who enjoy being the little spoon are often more attuned and empathetic partners.
13. Playful gestures of affection. Little things like pokes, tickles, playful butt smacks, hand-holding, surprise hugs, or messing with their hair make them smile. They may act exasperated, but they love the attention.
14. When you take the initiative. Outdated gender roles aside, men enjoy when their partner makes the first move. It lets them relax and feel pursued instead of always being the one chasing.
2. When you talk about their zodiac sign. While we may roll our eyes when you mention “cusp,” we secretly enjoy it. Who doesn’t like hearing something flattering about themselves? If you mention that we're a match based on our signs, it’s an instant ego boost.
3. Being asked for help or advice. While we’re not generalizing masculinity, it’s true that many men enjoy feeling like they can provide for those they care about. Whether it’s opening a tough jar or reaching something from a high shelf, helping out makes us feel useful and proud.
4. Listening to your music. It’s not that men can’t appreciate a good Swift song, but it’s often not their go-to genre. When you take the aux cord, put on some classics, and give them a reason to vibe, they’re totally in. Extra points if you encourage them to sing along.
5. When you praise them in public. Dating expert Imad Jbara explains, “The most attractive thing a girl can do is build up our egos.” We might stay humble, but we’ll never turn down a little admiration every now and then.
6. Head and back massages. A mini massage goes a long way, and we’re all about relieving some tension in our shoulders. Scritch-scratch away!
7. Getting their eyebrows tweezed. Men need some self-care too, even if they don’t always make it a priority. When you break out the tweezers and take care of their brows, they may complain, but they won’t object.
8. Receiving cute nicknames. Men love affectionate nicknames and compliments, and the sweeter, the better. Dating coach John Keegan suggests these terms: “Adorable, cute, handsome, sweet, sexy, cool, fun, creative, masculine.”
9. When you ask their opinion on your outfit. We know you’re probably already decided on your look, but we love being involved. And any excuse to give you a compliment is a win in our book.
10. Good morning and goodnight texts. It’s not a nuisance; it’s the best part of our day. Receiving a text from you right when we wake up and before bed is a simple joy. Don’t hesitate to send that good morning text.
11. When you rest on their chest. Men don’t always admit they crave closeness, but when you lie on their chest, just chilling together, it’s pure contentment.
12. Being the little spoon. While many guys love being the protective big spoon, sometimes, they want to be the one who’s cared for. Studies show that men who enjoy being the little spoon are often more attuned and empathetic partners.
13. Playful gestures of affection. Little things like pokes, tickles, playful butt smacks, hand-holding, surprise hugs, or messing with their hair make them smile. They may act exasperated, but they love the attention.
14. When you take the initiative. Outdated gender roles aside, men enjoy when their partner makes the first move. It lets them relax and feel pursued instead of always being the one chasing.
Things Guys Desire in a Relationship But Won’t Ask For

1. Compliments and appreciation. Men, like anyone else, appreciate being acknowledged and praised now and then. Expressing your admiration and telling him how much he matters reaffirms the bond between you both, letting him know you’re just as into him as he is into you.
2. Emotional support. Your guy wants to feel your support, whether he’s engaged in a casual hobby or achieving a major goal. Mutual encouragement strengthens the relationship, making sure you both excel and grow together.
3. Honest and transparent communication. Men prefer to avoid mind games. They want open and real conversations, where both partners feel free to express themselves. Honest communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and simplicity is key.
4. Physical affection. Physical closeness lowers stress levels and strengthens the bond between partners. Although it seems like a given, affection through touch can sometimes be overlooked. Guys certainly notice when it’s missing.
Reader Poll: We asked 3427 Mytour readers how they prefer their partner to express affection, and 52% said they love cuddling, hugging, kissing, or other forms of touch. [Take Poll]
5. A bit of personal space. Even in the most fulfilling relationships, it’s healthy to have some time apart and the freedom to pursue individual interests. Trust is vital here, and knowing that you both trust each other to make wise choices, even when apart, makes all the difference.
6. Quality one-on-one time. Ultimately, your guy is committed to you, not anyone else. He wants to spend meaningful time with you, whether it’s going on exciting dates or just hanging out at home. One-on-one attention is essential to a strong relationship.
2. Emotional support. Your guy wants to feel your support, whether he’s engaged in a casual hobby or achieving a major goal. Mutual encouragement strengthens the relationship, making sure you both excel and grow together.
3. Honest and transparent communication. Men prefer to avoid mind games. They want open and real conversations, where both partners feel free to express themselves. Honest communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and simplicity is key.
4. Physical affection. Physical closeness lowers stress levels and strengthens the bond between partners. Although it seems like a given, affection through touch can sometimes be overlooked. Guys certainly notice when it’s missing.
Reader Poll: We asked 3427 Mytour readers how they prefer their partner to express affection, and 52% said they love cuddling, hugging, kissing, or other forms of touch. [Take Poll]
5. A bit of personal space. Even in the most fulfilling relationships, it’s healthy to have some time apart and the freedom to pursue individual interests. Trust is vital here, and knowing that you both trust each other to make wise choices, even when apart, makes all the difference.
6. Quality one-on-one time. Ultimately, your guy is committed to you, not anyone else. He wants to spend meaningful time with you, whether it’s going on exciting dates or just hanging out at home. One-on-one attention is essential to a strong relationship.
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