He spent 20 minutes on our first date explaining the basics of my own job to me.

I just smiled and nodded, because apparently, listening is 'attractive' when *I* do it.

He posted a whole Instagram story about how crucial it is for men to be allies and uplift women's voices.

Then immediately slid into my DMs with 'Hey, smile more.'

I tried to do that 'messy bun' look this morning, you know, the one that's supposed to be casual and chic.

After three failed attempts, a whole lot of hairspray, and an arm cramp, I just gave up and wore a hat. That's my version of effortless.

He told me he was looking for a woman who 'challenges him.'

And I thought, 'Great, I can start by challenging your assumption that 'tidying up' means moving things from one flat surface to another.'