Okay I am not an expert by any means, but I have a good deal of life experience. As a strong, independent woman, there are a few things that just aren’t okay when looking for a significant other.

Here is a bit of advice from a 29-year-old lady who has dated a few duds…

Grow up. Women do not want a man-child. Peter Pan is not a role model. Learn to take care of a house. Wash your clothes, cook things on the stove (not the microwave), and for heaven’s sake, please clean your house!!!

Make us feel like we’re important. Include us in big life decisions, bring us a single red rose because you saw it and thought of me.. Ask my best friend for advice on gifts if you can’t think of anything to get for my birthday. Just make me feel important to you.

Wear shoes. I know this seems silly, and maybe it’s just me, but don’t wear plastic flip flops unless you are at the beach, running errands in the heat, or are a professional surfer. I like a man to wear shoes. If you must wear flip flops, invest in a leather pair. $2 plastic shoes just don’t cut it.

Show me you’re a gentleman. Open doors for me, pull out my chair, walk on the street side of the side walk.. We DO notice those little things. They count.

Don’t act jealous or possessive. Jealousy is a big turn off and it’s juvenile. We are both adults and if I am in a relationship with you, I am not going to be lured away by another man. For me, I’m a musician and I perform. Lots of guys AND GIRLS come up to talk to me after a show. Don’t act all possessive when that happens. It’s extremely off-putting. As the first wive’s club says “You Don’t Own Me”.

These are just a few thoughts and suggestions.. Do you have any major “no-no’s”?