4 times he wants to be in charge: you're an independent chick, but your man needs to shine at these moments.(MAN MANUAL: his point of view)

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Your boy is well aware of the fact that you're perfectly capable of doing anything he can--except, perhaps, recite every line from Old School. But there are certain situations in which he wants to be the man. So when these circumstances arise, hint that you'd like him to step in, then sit back and reap the benefits (including his everlasting, if silent, appreciation).

Paying the Predinner Bar Tab

Buying the meal every time you go out can be a bank-breaking endeavor for your guy. Always picking up drinks beforehand, however, is a more affordable way of taking the lead. And if it's a group outing with your pals, so much the better. "I'll pick up the bar tab when I'm out with friends of my girl who I've just met," says Zac, 28. "It helps to break the ice, and it's a gentlemanly way of returning the favor of being welcomed into their circle."

Being Mr. "I Want to Speak to the Manager"

We're not saying you're too meek to complain about terrible service. We're just saying we kind of enjoy doing it, so why not let us? "My girlfriend gets sick of confronting her do-nothing landlord, so sometimes I do it for her," admits Scott, 31. "I like getting worked up on her behalf."

Men are no longer ...