A top dating coach breaks down 10 things men do that instantly turn women off—and how to fix them fast.
A top dating coach breaks down 10 things men do that instantly turn women off—and how to
fix them fast.
When it comes to modern dating, David Meessen, an elite dating coach who has helped men across 26 countries, knows exactly why guys struggle with attraction—and he’s not afraid to call it out. After overcoming his own social anxiety and lack of confidence along with the fallout of an unhappy marriage, Meessen transformed his life. He built a career dedicated to teaching men how to exude confidence, sharpen their social game, and effortlessly attract high-value women. But more importantly, he shows men how to elevate their own value—so they become the prize.
So, if you’re sick of getting ghosted, friend-zoned, dismissed and ignored, it’s time to cut the BS and level up. Here are 10 attraction-killing mistakes men make around women—and how to avoid them.
1. Overexplaining Yourself
Women don’t want a PowerPoint presentation on why you’re an interesting guy. If you find yourself justifying your opinions, explaining jokes, or trying too hard to impress, stop. Confidence is in brevity. Say what you mean, and let the silence do the heavy lifting.
Why it matters: Overexplaining comes from insecurity. A confident man doesn’t feel the need to seek approval or clarify every detail. Say what you mean, own your words, and move forward.
2. Seeking Validation
Constantly asking, “Do you like me?” or “Am I your type?” is an instant turnoff. Attraction isn’t about begging for approval—it’s about owning your worth whether she sees it or not. A high-value man doesn’t need permission to be attractive.
Why it matters: Women are drawn to certainty and self-assurance. When you seek validation, you’re telling her, “I don’t believe in myself, so I need you to confirm my value.” That’s not attractive—it’s weak.
3. Being Too Available
Texting back instantly, always saying yes to last-minute plans, or dropping everything for her? That screams desperation. A man with options moves on his own time. If she has to wonder what you’re up to, you’re doing it right.
Why it matters: People value what is scarce. When you make yourself too easy to access, she won’t see you as a challenge worth chasing. Keep your life full, stay busy, and let her come to you.
4. Trying Too Hard to Impress
Bragging about your car, job, or gym routine doesn’t make you attractive—it makes you look insecure. Women are drawn to men who already know they’re valuable and don’t feel the need to prove it. Let your presence, confidence, and energy do the talking.
Why it matters: True attraction comes from mystery and self-assurance. If you have to convince her you’re great, you don’t fully believe it yourself. Show, don’t tell.
5. Acting Like a ‘Nice Guy’
If your strategy is being overly accommodating, avoiding confrontation, or constantly agreeing with her, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Worse, you’re lying—hiding your true self out of fear of scaring her off. But the effect is opposite: women see right through it, and it kills attraction.
Women don’t respect men who try to “nice” their way into their hearts. Be direct, stand by what you believe, and speak your mind—even if it sparks disagreement. Never be afraid to say no. The bottom line: Stop always saying yes or telling her what she wants to hear. It’s dishonest, boring, and an instant turnoff.
Why it matters: Nice guys lose because they lack backbone. Women want a man who can hold his own, challenge them, and lead—not follow.
6. Complimenting Her Too Much
Yes, women love compliments—but only when they’re legit. If you’re showering her with “You’re so beautiful” and “You’re amazing” every five minutes, it loses all meaning and makes you look needy. Instead, give specific, well-timed compliments about something unique—her cute dimples, her wit, her energy, her sense of humor.
Why it matters: A well-placed, sincere compliment makes a woman feel seen. Overdoing it makes you look desperate. Compliment sparingly and only when you truly mean it.
7. Talking Too Much About Yourself
If you dominate the conversation with long stories, personal achievements, and opinions, she’s tuning you out. Attraction isn’t built by proving yourself—it’s built by making her feel engaged. Flip the script—get her talking, ask deep questions, and create a dynamic where she’s earning your attention. Cultivate genuine curiosity and listen just as much as you speak.
Why it matters: The more she talks, the more emotionally invested she becomes. People are drawn to those who make them feel heard. Make her feel understood, and she’ll naturally associate you with excitement and connection. This applies to any conversation with anyone, not just dating.
8. Being Too Afraid of Conflict
Women test men. It’s natural. If she playfully challenges you and you backpedal, apologize, or get defensive, she instantly loses attraction. Tease back. Call her out. Hold your ground. She’s testing to see if you’re strong enough to handle her energy.
Why it matters: Women want a man who can lead and handle pressure. If you flinch at the first sign of conflict, you’re signaling weakness. Learn to enjoy the push and pull—it builds attraction.
9. Putting Her on a Pedestal
Stop acting like she’s a goddess who descended from the heavens. No woman wants to be worshipped by a man she barely knows. It’s called supplicating and it should be avoided. Attraction thrives on tension, playfulness, and a bit of unpredictability. Admire her, but never idolize her. You’re her equal, not a desperate devotee, so act like it.
Instead of bending over backward to win her over, flip the script. Let her chase you. Be the prize. Women are drawn to men who have standards, confidence, and a strong sense of self—not those who are instantly available and eager to please. Challenge her. Make her earn your attention. Let her prove she’s worth your time, not the other way around.
Shift your own perspective:
“Do I even want this woman? Am I genuinely interested in her? Let’s see if she meets my standards before I decide.”
Why it matters: The moment you put a woman above you, you lower your own value. Treat her as an equal, not an untouchable prize. A high-value man doesn’t chase approval—he inspires attraction.
10. Playing It Safe
The biggest mistake? Being forgettable. If you’re too afraid to take risks, say something bold, or make a move, you’re just another nice guy in her DMs. Flirt. Challenge her. Create tension. Fun debates. Attraction isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about creating excitement.
Why it matters: The men women remember are the ones who made them feel something. If you’re predictable and boring, you’re just background noise. Take the risk—it’s what separates men who get ignored from those who get pursued.
David Meessen built his reputation teaching men how to embody confidence, set boundaries, and command attraction without games or gimmicks. If you’re tired of being overlooked, it’s time to reprogram your mindset and step up.
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