Relationships and marriages do NOT have to be complicated. But since we are human beings, we tend to create mountains out of molehills. Let’s keep it simple and go over the top ten list for some great relationship advice for the guys:

1. Buy expensive things — girls want feelings not things! Buying expensive things for a woman may put them in an uncomfortable position. You may not realize it but you are “buying” her love. And it is manipulative and a lot of women resent it.

2. Not giving her something that has meaning – give something that brings about great memories. For instance, I got a small artificial plant in a clay pot for my sweetheart because she did NOT have a green thumb. And She loved it! And every once in a while I would remind her to rotate the plant in the sunlight. And it made her laugh. The plant only cost me 99 cents but it brought us a lifetime of pleasant memories. You could look for 1000’s of awesome cheap ideas in mail order catalogs. If you got a little talent, how about singing a little song, writing a love note or even a short poem?

3. Buying the same thing over and over again for Valentine’s Day — remember, Valentine’s Day is really a bonanza for retailers. Millions and millions of guys pushed by advertisements to buy chocolates and flowers on February 14th, every single year. And it sure gets a little stale and predictable after a while. Dare to be wild! Really surprise her with something unexpected and she would really appreciate! It can be a coupon good for a “night out in town” or even a voucher she can redeem that you will clean up the kitchen on some days when she doesn’t feel like doing it.

4. Not saying, “I love you” every single day — just kidding! Every other day is fine. OK guys, I’ll be serious now. My suggestion is to pick your moments. While you do want to assure her that she still has your heart, what you REALLY want to do, is throw a teensy weensy bit doubt in it.

5. Tease and tantalize her — just enough to vex and make her wonder if you really, really love her. And when you finally do reassure her of your heart, she will respond with intense feelings of love and companionship.

6. Be boring – oh come on, guys! You can’t bore a woman to a slow death and expect her to respond with love and passion.

7. Not putting enough thought in ways to spend quality time together — find some activity or pastime that you both enjoy doing together. It doesn’t have to be expensive or strenuous. It can be a slow walk on the beach to visiting a theme museum downtown.

8. Not doing the little things outside of “traditional” moments – you don’t have to wait until her birthday, anniversary or Valentine’s Day to do something special for her. Remember, women are different from guys. While we might be happy watching sports or tinkering with our hobbies, women treasure moments of attention from you. It means paying attention to her and listening to what she is saying.

9. Trying to solve her problems – to me, this is one of the biggest blunders guys make. When your woman complains or talks about something that is bothering her… The reaction of most guys is to try to “fix” that problem for her. It bothers us that someone we love is in pain and it is natural for guys to “fix it” for them. But guess what? Most times, she DOESN’T want you do take care of the problem for her. She just wants you to empathize and reassure her that you love her. In short, women are not china dolls – they are fully capable of solving most of their problems on their own. Next time she is talking to you, ask yourself, is she seeking a solution from you or is does she just want your steady approval?

10. Not giving her space – give her the gift of missing her every once in a while. Go on a camping or fishing trip with your buddies for a week. How about a work related seminar? Just find a legitimate excuse to get out of the house for a few days.

Now get busy. You have things to do to create love and affection in your relationship with your sweetie…

By: Brad Donelson

Brad Donelson is a recognized authority on the subject of relationship tips and advice. His web site at www.building-healthy-relationship.com provides a wealth of informative articles, relationship book reviews and resources on everything you’ll ever need to know about Building Healthy Relationship.