Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus -- The Truth about Cats and Dogs ... there has been an abundance of books and films produced over the years illustrating the fundamental differences between men and women.

Social conditioning has generated countless preconceived notions about the supposed feminine mystique, leaving the general male population confused about what it is women want from them and why women behave the way they do.

The following is a manual intended for all of the "dogs" out there who feel as if women dwell on another planet, whether it be Venus or Uranus (I still chuckle when I utter that word).

One necessary disclaimer however: it is crucial to note that while women do share a sisterhood if you will, every woman is unique in her own right. Use this article as a guide -- not the gospel -- and your understanding of the other sex will improve.
Knowledge Is Power
So said Francis Bacon in 1597 in his demand, not for a greater understanding of the female, but for an empirical emphasis in science. There is no evidence to suggest that the British philosopher was a hit with the ladies, but it can be concluded that if he walked his talk, Francis made somebody's bacon sizzle.

The lesson to be learned is that to know the woman is to understand the woman. For those who need further clarification, knowing how the lady in your life likes her coffee is not what is being proposed. The knowledge required for our purpose here is deeper in nature.

Discover your woman, her moods, her tastes, and her temperament. Adhere to them and bend to them, without compromising your masculine sensibility, of course. You must after all, play the yang to her proverbial yin -- if you subscribe to that belief.
Resolve The Mystery Of Woman
This may seem more like "Mission: Impossible," but if you choose to accept the endeavor, some of the mystery that shrouds your understanding can be overcome.

The exercise is a game that most women want you to play and you may be cajoled into doing so. In order to succeed, you will need a keen sense of observation, a sharp mind and the patience of Job.

The feminine mystique is a quality many women have as a matter of design. It provides them with an air of secrecy that makes them feel more attractive and keeps potential suitors on guard.

Frustrating as this may be to men, it is not inherently negative and can be used to your benefit. Be aware of the latter and half the battle will be won. If you prefer a woman who is an open book, consider the advantages of being with someone who demands more effort in order to discover her finer assets.

Playing cat and mouse can be fun and rewarding in the end. After all, the sweetest fruit is found in the darkest reaches of the jungle.
Enter Her Dark Side
Yet a man must be cautious when he deigns to discover the feminine mystique. Are you prepared to find out what it is she wants? If you prefer mystery to clarity, take heed and like Luke Skywalker, do not venture into the Dark Side. It ruined Darth Vader and may do the same to you.

The key is to make one simple distinction. Is she enticing you to delve deeper or like a third base coach, is she giving you the "Hold" signal? You might want to slide into third if you are unsure because if you get tagged out at home, you may never enter the game again.

Are you who she wants you to be? Huh?


Read, Adopt And React
These three words will help you negotiate the landmine field of her soul. If successful, you will emerge with your limbs intact and a greater sense of what it is she wants. In turn, you may get what you are after.

While being yourself is never a bad way to win a woman over, there are times when she may want you to assume a role depending on the circumstance (or her mood). Learn to read the signals she provides you.

If you cannot see them, you are not looking hard enough. There is not a woman out there who does not give them off, except if her home is a convent. Now adopt the appropriate role. Does she want you to take the power position?

As independent as some women claim to be, there is nothing more enticing to them than a man who assumes control of a situation. Just know the limits! Being a man does not always mean being in control. Perhaps she requires you to take a more passive direction, or be a freak, or maybe even a father figure (it happens more than you may realize).

Once you have nailed the part, react to the situation and read her response. If your choice has been wise, you will not be disappointed.
Sex: Quest For The Blueprint
No discussion of what women want would be complete without discussing the topic of sex. The fact is that there is no formula when it comes to women and sex. If you have discovered one way to make her weak in the knees, do not assume it will work every time.

When it comes to sex, women do want it to be different. Vary the routine and mix it up from time to time. Remember that one-trick ponies are never left out to stud.

Many men still have a major misconception of when women want sex and how they want it. If you believe that every comment, gesture and glance is intended for your arousal, then you have a serious problem. The rule of thumb is to slow your roll and check yourself.

Although grabbing her hair and hauling her back to the cave may seem thrilling, you will get further with flirtation, teasing and wit. Chances are that if you dispense a dose of each in the right amount, she will be showing you what she wants in the near future.

As a man, it is important to realize that the female sexual appetite is stronger than your own. It just needs the right coaxing in order to manifest itself.
The Only Rule
When it comes to understanding women, the rules are simple... there are none. Be prepared for anything and realize that history may not repeat itself. But most of all embrace the wonders of communication and appreciate that listening is as important, if not more, than speaking.

Most women will reveal themselves to you in time if you adhere to a regimen of dialogue. After all, if you must know what it is she wants, you can always ask. Just brace yourself for further confusion when you hear the answer.