I’m so tired of playing the male role in dating

My friend, I only recently learned that the "confidence" that women are attracted to is about being comfortable about who YOU are, and not trying to live up to some ideal that you think other people want you to be.

True, there are certain biological characteristics that are innately attractive, but it mostly comes down to general health and reasonable social integration.

Physical health: you don't have to bench 300, but cut out fast food/soda and pick up an outdoor hobby, or try walking/jogging 2-3 x per week. The no fast food/soda thing is key.

Mental/emotional health: you don't have to "cure" your mental/emotional struggles, but whatever difficulties you have, own them, and develop healthy coping mechanisms, or seek treatment if necessary.

Social integration: you don't need a massive group of friends that you hit happy hour with every week, but develop and put energy into fulfilling friendships with others--this can include family as well, if you have that sort of relationship with yours. Humans, even introverts (like myself) are social creatures, and even if you have 1-2 good friends, people who "get you", that is enough for so many people, and their partners.

If you wind up "catching" someone who doesn't accept you for who you are, you won't have a good time dating that person or being in a relationship with that person. Be honest with who you are, get healthy, and the rest will follow.

/r/dating Thread