If you consider the phrase “handle with care” as referring only to fragile packages, you are forgetting about one of the worlds most fragile creatures, the macho man. We’ve heard both good and bad things about them, but this certainly does not mean that just because they can be a little difficult to break through to their emotions that you should deposit one back into the sea. Try these five tips to see if you can improve Mr. Macho’s style of communication.
1. The Power of Touch
Studies suggest that men babies are handled the least from age three and up. Men are taught they don’t need touch, yet it is in his human nature to crave it. If you want to open the flood gates to a man’s emotions, touch his arm or shoulder before starting an intimate conversation.
2. Connect Before Important Conversations
Men need to feel a connection before they share important feelings and/or emotions. Men communicate the best after sex, during a do-it-yourself project, or in the middle of a relaxing walk. These activities place you side by side, allowing any topic to feel less confrontational. However, don’t allow the activity to compete with his attention (sports, etc.), or you’ll have to work even harder to get your point across.
3. Teach Macho Men Empathy
A lot of women don’t understand that when a man starts telling a woman what to do, he is expressing empathy by showing interest in her problem. He may not understand that what she is really looking for is a strong shoulder and reassurance. This is one moment when telling him what you need is very appropriate.
4. Interpret His Feelings for Him
Men are not always good at interpreting their feelings, although studies would suggest he should actually be excellent at it. If he struggles to communicate his feelings, a woman can help guide him by gently interpreting some of his gibberish and silence with her own words. This gives him the confidence that she is trying to understand him, while also encouraging him with positive reinforcement.
5. Give Up on Some Apologies; They’re Not Worth it
A macho man struggle with an apology has nothing to do with his reluctance to say the words, but rather a different in understanding of what should call for one. When a man says something rude, a woman will bulk for an apology. He may not see his actions as harmful enough to warrant an “I’m sorry”. Studies show, if he did, he would, as 81 percent of men apologize after they feel they’ve done their woman wrong. Sometimes it’s better to let things go, rather than force something out of him, argue about it, and end up even more sorry for making a big deal.