Things Guys Do That Give Women The ‘Ick’
Over-the-Top Selfies
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Excessive Mansplaining
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Gloating about Gaming
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Picking Nose in Traffic
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Cargo Shorts Overload
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Ignoring Hygiene Basics
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Emoji Overload

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Using too many emojis makes us wonder if you're secretly auditioning for a clown troupe. Emojis are the spice of digital life, but a parade of clapping hands isn't a standing ovation. Expressions are like a well-cooked meal — balanced and not drowning in seasoning. We're here for meaningful text, not deciphering your hieroglyphic symphony.Advertisement
Oblivious Manspreading
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Axe Body Spray Abuse
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Highlighting "Friendliness"
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Dad Joke Overload
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Underwear Exposé
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Unsolicited Flexing
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Burping Contests
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Food Fight Enthusiasm
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Cartoon Character Voices

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It's like Siri's ghost possessed you. Let's keep Mickey Mouse out of this conversation, shall we? Cartoon voices can be entertaining, but too many character switch-ups make it feel like we're caught in a voice actor's portfolio. We're aiming for a tête-à-tête, not an animated casting call. Let's showcase our own voices for a change; no script required.Advertisement
"Inexplicable" Jealousy

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When you suddenly turn into Sherlock Holmes hunting for non-existent clues of infidelity, it's time to drop the magnifying glass. Jealousy's a tricky emotion, but playing detective with a magnifying glass worthy of a murder mystery? That's a bit too far. If trust is a delicate flower, your magnifying glass is a bulldozer. Let's cultivate a more secure garden, shall we?Advertisement
Nonstop Gym Check-ins
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Expensive Watch Flashing
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Overboard Baby Talk
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"Accidentally" Shirtless Selfies
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Extended Video Game Marathons
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Spontaneous Pickup Lines
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Unsolicited Fashion Police
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Extreme Competitive Streak
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Incessant Phone Checking
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Faux Intellectualism
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Overstaying the Text Welcome
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"Chivalry" Grandstanding
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Endless Self-Deprecation
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Ignoring them
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This is one of the biggest icks in the dating game because if you're dating, why are you willingly ignoring the person who's putting time and effort into you? If you want to ignore someone, then what's the point dating them in the first place! This is a no-go for women.Advertisement
Have a HUGE ego
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Confidence is very important, but there's a limit - and huge egos can stay at the door, thank you very much. Not many women are going to find a huge ego attractive, because it leaves less room for them in your life. If you love yourself that much, date yourself.Advertisement
Being sexist
image source: metro.co.uk
Even a little bit isn't okay, and no it's not a joke really is it? The smallest sexist comment brushed under the rug is just as bad, and we've no time for it. All it tells us is that 1) of course, you're sexist and number 2) that's what our future would be like with you.Advertisement
Being very obvious when checking other people out
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Most people are going to have their eyes wander from time to time, it's inevitable, but there's a different between a quick glance and absolutely ogling the waitress that comes over - who you then turn your head to watch leave while at the dinner table with your date.Advertisement
Wearing old and dirty clothes
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We spoke about how basic hygiene is a HUGE deal, but that goes hand in hand with clean clothes, too. You can shower all you want, but if you're putting on the same pair of jeans you've had for 20 years with holes all over them and a crusty t-shirt, it's a no from us, thanks.Advertisement
Having no self-confidence
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Having absolutely zero confidence is just as bad as having a huge ego. If your self-esteem is on the floor, all that tells us is that you're going to feel more like a project than a date. It's okay to have insecurities but it's all about your attitude towards them. If you're just moping instead of trying to feel better, it's a turn off.Advertisement
Lying - plain and simple
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Nobody wants a liar, no matter the gender. If you're telling little white lies, it's just going to make us wonder what bigger lies you're going to be willing to tell in the future. You shouldn't be lying about anything when you're dating someone, so you best believe it's an ick.Advertisement
Being disrespectful (especially to serving staff)
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Basic respect is a must - having disrespect is an ick. And we don't mean it's okay if you're respectful to us, because if we see you being disrespectful to others, it's a turn off. You can tell a lot about a person based on how rude and disrespectful they are to people like serving staff.Advertisement
Being pessimistic about everything
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This can sort of fall into the same category as the low self-esteem deal, because if you're constantly 'woe is me' or looking on the dark side of life, it's eventually going to wear us down and burn us out if you we date you, and we don't really want to be with someone who's going to drag us down.Advertisement
Moving way too fast
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Sure, it's great to know you're invested and excited about the future, but it's a huge ick if you're already picking out wedding outfits when we haven't even got to dessert yet. Moving way too fast is definitely an ick because it's just overwhelming and akin to love bombing - which is a no-go.Advertisement
Making us guess about your every move
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Openness and honesty is so key in dating, and it's a huge plus when a guy is upfront about what he wants or what he's thinking. If you're being annoyingly mysterious or not clear about your intentions for the relationship, or anything else you're doing, it's something we don't have the energy to deal with.Advertisement
Bad manners (gross)
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We don't want to see you sneeze in your hand and wipe it on your shirt, or belch and then scratch your a**. We're fine with normal bodily functions, but there's a difference between doing what you can't help and point blank being gross. Whether it's in public or in private, bad manners are bad manners!Advertisement
Being way too sensitive
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We definitely don't want to be treading on eggshells around you, which is why it's an ick - we don't want to be wondering whether you're going to take offense at every little thing we say. If you're overly sensitive, it also tells us you might have other issues or are insecure.Advertisement
Having no get-up-and-go
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This falls into the category of 'empty promises' and 'yeah yeah I'll do it tomorrow'. You might think it counts if you say "yes, I'm going to clean the house tomorrow" or "I'm going to search for a new job" but if you never actually do it, it's just constant disappointment and shows you have zero motivation. Ick!Advertisement
Not being able to depend on you
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Being able to depend on your partner is a must, which is why being unreliable is a big fat ick. If you're constantly late, standing us up, forgetting to call us when you said you would, it's just telling us you're disorganized and we're never going to be able to depend on you.Advertisement
Being completely selfish
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If you're selfish, then you're not ready for dating - plain and simple. You can have your alone time without being selfish, so if it's all 'me me me' then that's one of the big icks. There's no room for us if you're being selfish, and it just means you'll always come first.Advertisement
Not being willing to cook
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We don't mean we get the ick if you're not a naturally gifted chef or don't enjoy cooking - but if you're only ever prepared to make burnt toast and beans or the 10th TV dinner for the week, it's just.... well, off-putting. It shows us you're not healthy and kinda lazy to be honest.Advertisement
Having zero ambitions
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Ambition and having goals is one of the most attractive things about a person, so if you have absolutely no get up and go, aren't making any attempts to make plans and are flat out lazy when it comes to life and your career, it just tells us everything we need to know about a future with you.Advertisement
Wearing clothes that are too tight
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Fitted clothing can look attractive, sure. The most attractive thing is clothing that just... well, fits. If you're wearing clothes that are two sizes too small purposefully to accentuate muscles or whatever else, it doesn't look as good as you think it does. And it just means you look uncomfortable!Advertisement
Sending unsolicited pics nobody asked for
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You might think that late night snap is the hottest thing you've ever seen, but we certainly don't - if we didn't ask for it. We don't want your heavily filtered, bad lighting photos when we didn't ask for them, and while it might be sexy if we want to see, it most certainly is not if you force it on us!Advertisement
Being overly cringy
Image Source: RedditSteer clear from the cringe because it's a one way ticket to giving a woman the ick. Being cringy could be trying too hard to be cool or funny but missing the mark entirely. Whether it's a cringe-worthy pickup line or overusing internet slang, just tone it down slightly.Advertisement
Calling their ex 'crazy'
Image Source: RedditNot only is it a clearly disrespectful and ick-inducing term to label your ex as 'crazy', but it also makes a woman question whether you're really the problem. It's red flag behaviour and it could warm a woman straight off you if they hear that age-old excuse.Advertisement
Talking about their ex at all!
Image Source: RedditIn fact, in the initial stages we don't want to hear about your ex at all. Talking about them excessively just screams that you're not over them at all. Until a woman asks you about her, in which case be open and honest, then lay off the ex-girlfriend chat!Advertisement
Acting too 'macho'
Image Source: RedditYou know, the whole chest-puffing, overly aggressive thing? It can come off as intimidating and even make it hard to connect to your real personality. Creating the whole 'tough' act means that people don't actually get to see the real you, just a façade.Advertisement
Having a complete lack of communication skills
Image Source: RedditDating or forming a relationship is pretty impossible without any kind of communication skills. If getting to the bottom of how you are feeling is like drawing blood from a stone then it's going to get very old, very quick. A woman likes to know where she stands.Advertisement
Or being super needy
Image Source: RedditDating someone who consistently seeks excessive attention and reassurance can be exhausting. The constant need for validation and support can make the relationship feel very one-way. A man being too needy makes a woman feel emotionally drained and can give her the ick!Advertisement
Having copious amounts of confidence (arrogance)
Image Source: RedditThere's a fine line between confidence and arrogance. One is super attractive, and the other will give a woman the ick. The key lies in finding a middle ground where self-assurance enhances rather than dominates the conversation and every statement doesn't emphasize an unwavering belief in your own superiority.Advertisement
Wearing trousers down to their knees
Image Source: RedditThat look has come and gone, thankfully. Yet despite the fact that the trend is out, some men still love to rock the whole trousers around their knees look. We don't want to see your underwear. Pull them up, or add a belt because it's not a good look.Advertisement
Talking about lots of women
Image Source: RedditDiscussing or talking about lots of women, especially in a manner that objectifies or reduces them to mere numbers, is the most sure way to giving a woman the ick! No woman is attracted by a man belittling another woman, or by boasting about how many women they've dated!Advertisement
The pouting selfie
Image Source: RedditThe pouting selfie' might trigger the ick factor for some women, and here's why, guys: when you consistently post selfies with that pouting expression, it can come across as somewhat insincere or overly posed. We'd much rather see a natural looking photo.Advertisement
Making everything into an innuendo
Image Source: RedditWhen everything becomes a potential double entendre, it might give the impression of a lack of depth or an avoidance of genuine connection. A woman will feel like you're here for the wrong reasons, and that you might be here for a physical connection only!Advertisement
Being excessively loud with your friends
Image Source: RedditMany guys, as soon as they are with their friends, change into a much louder version of themselves. Everything escalates in volume, which can make others around them feel uncomfortable. It's especially likely to give a woman the ick if you're shouting foul language!Advertisement
And suddenly acting like you're back in the playground
Image Source: RedditWe've all witnessed a group of male friends get together and watched them revert from mature individuals, to kids back in the playground shouting and jeering. While it all might be a bit of fun, it's not exactly the behaviour that's going to attract a woman, but maybe the opposite effect!Advertisement
White skinny jeans
Image Source: RedditThis is a controversial point. Some women may love the skinny white jean look. Others feel that this look came and went a few years ago, and they're hoping it will stay out forever. When done right, they could be a fashion statement. Done wrong, they could give a woman the ick.Advertisement
Talking about fighting
Image Source: RedditIs there anything more unattractive to a woman than a man talking about fighting or even worse, boasting about it?! It's an instant turn-off. It gives off the completely wrong impression, sounding aggressive and also majorly immature. It's a huge red flag.Advertisement
Inappropriate humour
Image Source: RedditImagine cracking jokes that make people go, Did he just say that? It's not about killing the fun, but sometimes, the boundary between funny and off-putting is pretty thin. Keeping the vibe light without diving into questionable territory ensures everyone enjoys the humor without feeling awkward.Advertisement
Chewing loud or with their mouth open
Image Source: RedditChewing with your mouth open or chewing too loud has to be one of the most irritating sounds, ever. Instead of savouring your meal, someone has to try and tune out disgusting smacking and slurping sounds. It shows a complete lack of table manners and it's simply just gross.Advertisement
Totally ignoring boundaries
Image Source: RedditCompletely disregarding boundaries is like entering a social minefield where the well-established lines of comfort get blurred or flat-out ignored. When boundaries are thrown out the window, it's like signaling that personal comfort zones don't matter.Advertisement
Texting non-stop
Image Source: RedditWhen guys keep bombarding with messages, it can be a bit overwhelming. It's crucial to find a balance, especially in the early stages of dating. Constant texting takes away the anticipation of waiting for a reply and discovering things about each other gradually. Assuming the other person is available all the time? Not so great.Advertisement
Or leaving texts on read!
Image Source: RedditCome on guys, there's a happy medium here. Women don't want to be bombarded, but they do want SOMETHING. A little text now and then, it's super easy. Communication is a two-way street, and when one side feels ignored, it can create a sense of disconnect.Advertisement
Talking about themselves too much
Image Source: RedditWhen guys dominate the conversation with their own stories, achievements, or interests without showing genuine interest in the other person, it can be a bit off-putting. Constantly steering discussions back to oneself might come off as self-centred and make the other person feel unheard or unimportant.Advertisement
Overly flashing the cash
Image Source: RedditWhen you're flashing the cash too much it's off putting for a woman who think that you're trying to impress her with your wealth - which feels superficial! When you're constantly displaying your wealth, it can create an atmosphere that revolves around materialism rather than genuine connections.Advertisement
Being flaky
Image Source: RedditIt's not just about occasional changes in plans; it's about the consistency of unpredictability. When you're flaky, it can leave others feeling uncertain and frustrated, questioning whether they can depend on you. Reliability is a cornerstone for solid connections!Advertisement
Constant mirror check-ups
Image Source: RedditWhen you find yourself doing mirror check-ups at every turn, it might inadvertently convey a preoccupation with your appearance. While a quick glance for a touch-up is normal, an excessive focus on your reflection could be perceived as vanity which is off putting for a woman.Advertisement
Ordering for them
Image Source: RedditThis is seriously an ick move. Taking the lead and ordering for someone means that you're assuming their food preferences without a discussion. You aren't considering their preferences and giving them agency in their choices. When you take charge of ordering without consulting, it makes women feel like their opinions aren't valued or that their autonomy is being overlooked.Advertisement
Being possessive
Image Source: RedditWhen you become possessive it makes a woman feel stifled, as if they're losing their independence. A healthy relationship allows for individual space and trust. Constantly needing to assert control or constantly questioning someone's every move may lead to feelings of suffocation and a lack of freedom.Advertisement
Trying to be too 'touchy feely'
Image Source: RedditBeing overly "touchy-feely," guys, turns every interaction into a physical thing. No woman wants to feel as though you're pursuing her for the wrong reasons and it comes across as though you're only interested in the physical aspect of the relationship.Advertisement
Flirting obviously with other people
Image Source: RedditIt can create discomfort and raise questions about commitment. When you're laying on the charm a bit too thick with others, it's hard to ignore. Instead of creating a sense of security and appreciation, it introduces an element of uncertainty and can leave a partner feeling undervalued.Advertisement
Being too focused on material things
Image Source: RedditWhen you're excessively fixated on material possessions, it can potentially trigger the "ick" for women. Genuine connections and shared moments hold more weight than the price tags of your belongings. So, if the focus remains overwhelmingly on materialism, it may lead to a sense of shallowness and a lack of depth.Advertisement
Talking about his 'status'
Image Source: RedditWhen you consistently bring up your status, whether it's in terms of career, social standing, or other accomplishments, it may come across as self-centered or boastful. Women might find it off-putting because it can create an impression that your self-worth is solely tied to external validations.Advertisement
Not making an effort
Image Source: RedditAll women want a man to make an effort. It sends the right message to tell her you are interested and you're willing to put time and effort into getting to know her because she's important to you. Not making an effort sends exactly the opposite message!Advertisement
Telling you to 'dress nice'
Image Source: RedditWhen you repeatedly emphasize the need to 'dress nice,' it might make women feel scrutinized, or make them feel that their appearance is your primary focus. It can create pressure and contribute to a sense of not being accepted for who they are, or that you have previously disliked what they wore.Advertisement
Telling a woman 'they're lucky' to be dating you
Image Source: RedditTelling a woman that she's "lucky" to be dating you, guys, can come off as a bit presumptive and super arrogant! It's like suggesting that your presence alone is the key factor in making the relationship fortunate for her, potentially overlooking her individual qualities and contributions.Advertisement
Idealizing the date or relationship
Image Source: RedditWomen can get the ick when a guy starts to idealize their situation, especially when they don't reciprocate the same level of feelings! If you're painting an over-romanticized picture that might not reflect reality, it's piling on the pressure for her to feel the same.Advertisement
Constantly asking for compliments or reassurance
Image Source: RedditNeeding constant reassurance or fishing for compliments can be completely emotionally exhausting. It can make a woman feel as though they cannot give you enough, or as though you aren't trusting their true feelings for you. It makes women feel like they're on a loop of providing validation.Advertisement
Telling continuous stories about himself
Image Source: RedditIf you're bombarding her with a continuous series of stories about yourself, she's going to feel as though you're only interested in you and not her. It's an egotistical trait, which may give her the ick because it's like a one man show. You're talking about yourself and never about her.Advertisement
Interrupting mid-sentence
Image Source: RedditIt's not just about breaking into someone's words; it sends a message that what's being said doesn't matter. A conversation should be a give-and-take, a balanced exchange where everyone gets their say. Constantly cutting in mid-sentence throws this balance off-kilter, making it a struggle for everyone to express themselves.Advertisement
Only complimenting a woman's appearance
Image Source: RedditEvery woman loves a compliment on her physical appearance, but not at the expense of her real attributes! It's not just about looks; it's about acknowledging the depth and uniqueness she brings. It might make women feel like their other qualities are overlooked.Advertisement
Playing down their achievements
Image Source: RedditMinimizing a woman's achievements sends her a message that her accomplishments aren't as significant as they truly are. It makes her feel completely unvalued which is a sure way to give her the ick. No woman ever wants to feel unappreciated or undermined.Advertisement
Telling a woman to smile!
Image Source: RedditAs a woman being told to smile by a man, there's almost nothing more irritating. It's patronizing, and simply nothing to do with anybody else whether she wants to smile or not. It can come across as disregarding her right to experience and express emotions naturally.Advertisement
Excessively gossiping about people
Image Source: RedditGossiping too much can make women question the sincerity of conversations and wonder if they might become the subject of discussion. So, you might think that talking about other people behind their back is interesting or funny, but it's giving the totally wrong impression!Advertisement
Being overly bothered about people's opinions
Image Source: RedditWhen you're overly preoccupied with what others think, it might make women feel like you're not fully embracing your authentic self. Constantly seeking approval can create an atmosphere of tension and may give the impression that external opinions hold more weight than your own values. Just be yourself!Advertisement
Having a short temper
Image Source: RedditWhen you've got a short fuse, it can make minor issues feel like major explosions, creating tension and discomfort. It's crucial to work on lengthening that fuse, giving yourself and those around you the space to navigate disagreements without the unnecessary fireworks.Advertisement
Being inconsistent
Image Source: RedditInconsistency gives an impression that you can't be trusted. Consistency is like the trusty sidekick in a relationship; it's what helps everyone navigate the twists and turns smoothly. When you're consistently there, it builds a sense of security and understanding.Advertisement
Being overly secretive
Image Source: RedditIf you're being too secretive, you could risk giving a woman the ick. Keeping secrets is going to make her feel like you're constantly hiding something and can't be trusted. A little mystery is very different to totally holding back on crucial information about yourself.Advertisement
Being overly confident on text and shy in person
Image Source: RedditBeing super confident over text, and then turning into a bit of a shrinking violet in person isn't the most attractive move. When you're a text champion but a bit reserved face-to-face, it might make women feel like they're interacting with two different characters.Advertisement
Making a joke out of everything she says
Image Source: RedditThis is super irritating for a woman because while they are happy to laugh and joke, there at times where it's not appropriate. For example, if a woman ahs opened up and told you something you need to respond sensitively. Joking can make her feel unheard and she won't trust you with her feelings.Advertisement
Being unpredictable with your moods
Image Source: RedditWhen you're unpredictable she'll feel as though she's walking on eggshells, which is not what any woman wants. They want consistency, to know where they're at. Not having to continuously guess what mood you'll be and whether you'll be blowing hot or cold with her.Advertisement
Ignoring her input in decision making
Image Source: RedditWhen her input gets consistently overlooked, it can make her feel left undervalued. It's important to create an atmosphere where decisions are a joint effort, recognizing the value each person brings. Balancing out the decision-making process ensures that both partners feel heard and have a say in how the relationship unfolds.Advertisement




