10 Must-Have Qualities Women Should Seek in a Man (2 of 6)

2. He speaks up about his needs

Choose a partner who can say what he wants without fear. Communication is the bedrock of lasting love, yet plenty of men struggle to put their needs into words—from craving affection to wanting small acts of care. Thriving couples normalize naming needs openly, which feeds mutual trust, respect, and connection.

3. He champions equality in your partnership

Do you ever feel the balance is off in your relationship? That misalignment often comes from a partner who doesn’t offer the mutual respect you deserve. For a long time, paternalistic norms kept women sidelined—in money matters, politics, and personal choice. But times have changed. You have every right to be with someone who treats you as an equal, not someone who tries to control you.