I’ve spent my life working to gain a reasonably sound understanding of the opposite sex. If you noticed, I specifically used the word “reasonable” since the likelihood of me ever fully mastering the complexities of a woman is about as probable as Jermaine Jackson denouncing hair grease — especially not when women change and evolve almost as frequently as the sun rises and sets. No, I’d rather strive for a reasonable understanding, which gives me the best possible chance at successfully loving Mrs. Right when she comes along.
As I prepare for her arrival, I’ve come to understand the distinct difference between a woman’s wants and needs. The wants are typically sexy in nature — the qualities that make leading men in movies so desirable. The needs on the other hand are often more practical, and in the long run turn out to be the things that lead to sustained happiness.
In the beginning of a relationship, some women forsake their needs because the wants are so appealing. (I can’t hate though, as men do the exact same thing.) But as most women mature, they begin to develop a greater appreciation for their needs over those enticing wants.
So in the spirit of this concept, I’ve decided to compare some of the typical wants and needs of a woman to see how they stack up against one another.
Her Wants vs. Her Needs
A woman wants a man that would never be disrespected by others … A woman needs a man who would always respect her.
A woman wants a man with a flawless body … A woman needs a man with impeccable character.
A woman wants a man 6-foot-3 or taller … A woman needs a man who stands tall in the face of adversity.
A woman wants a man that’s financially secure … A woman needs a man that’s emotionally stable.
A woman wants a man with a beautiful smile … A woman needs a man with a beautiful heart.
A woman wants a man that people think the world of … A woman needs a man that thinks the world of her.
A woman wants a man that’s willing to die for her … A woman needs a man that’s ready to live for her.
A woman wants a man that has seen the world … A woman needs a man that sees the world in her.
A woman wants a man that fulfills her checklist … A woman needs a man willing to love her in spite of his checklist.
Today’s Fly Request: Share some of your experiences as it pertains to a woman’s wants and needs.
To the men: Has a woman ever overlooked you because she was driven by her wants instead of her needs?
To the women: Have you ever been misled by your wants? If so, explain what happened.
**DeWayne Rogers is the author of The Fly Guy Chronicles; your in-depth guide to love, relationships and everything hazy in between.