DATING & RELATIONSHIPS
Can Men Really Be Hopeless Romantics?
Cheesy love songs. Romantic comedies with a classic plot. Lifelong dreams of a happily ever after.
Most of these things are often attributed to women. After all, a man can’t possibly be a hopeless romantic, right? That’s just for girls.
But the truth is, no gender has a monopoly on an idealized view of love and romance. Men are just as capable of enjoying a good chick flick or as helpless against the temptation to sing along when a Taylor Swift song starts playing on the radio. They’re probably just a little sneakier about it.
To help women figure out whether or not their boyfriend or husband is a hopeless romantic hiding in plain sight, here are some signs to look out for:
He’s not afraid to say “I love you”.
It can be difficult for men to be vocal about their emotions. As a result, validation of feelings or open communication can sometimes be challenging for couples.
But if your partner is generous with his words of affirmation — if he doesn’t have to resort to codes or riddles about “three words and eight letters” — then chances are he’s a hopeless romantic at heart, someone who’s been waiting his whole life to say that magical phrase to the right person.
He doesn’t shy away from public displays of affection.
While some men have trouble talking about their feelings, others struggle even more with being showy about them, which is why public displays of affection can sometimes be off limits for them.
But if you’re in a relationship with a man who’s also a hopeless romantic, he may not mind so much.
In fact, it’s possible he’ll even encourage them. Being able to hug or kiss your partner in public, or just hold their hand where other people can see, is something that someone who is proud to be in love will definitely enjoy.
He initiates romantic activities.
Whether they deserve it or not, men have a reputation for not putting any effort into their relationships. It’s almost always the woman who organizes the vacations and arranges the dinner dates.
However, a hopeless romantic boyfriend or husband will often insist on helping out or even taking charge of planning the activities that you’ll do as a couple. He’ll gladly make the reservations and prepare cute surprises because he doesn’t want to pass up any opportunity to celebrate your love for each other.
He enjoys media about love and romance.
If getting their partners to watch a rom-com or exchange love letters is like pulling teeth for some women, those who are dating a hopeless romantic man will probably feel the opposite.
Instead of grumbling about clichés or loudly complaining that he’s being forced to do “girly things,” your partner will share his favorite romantic tropes, write you beautiful handwritten notes, and even cheer alongside you when the male lead character in the movie finally gets the girl.
He’s sentimental about his relationship.
If he keeps taking photos during your dates or makes sure to have mementos of your special moments, then there’s a high chance your man is a hopeless romantic.
Most people, even men who don’t mind being openly sweet every now and then, will still be “normal” about their relationships. That is, they’ll remember the anniversaries and celebrate Valentines with the minimum amount of excitement.
But having a hopeless romantic man for a partner will guarantee you someone who not only remembers the exact number of days you’ve been together, but also the specific shirt you were wearing on the day you first met.
