To be able to keep your cool in an otherwise chaotic world is definitely a trait women find attractive. Many women prefer men who manage to solve problems without withdrawing emotionally or exploding. According to The Gottman Institute, the way a man controls his emotions is one of the strongest predictors of whether a relationship will actually go a long way.

4. Physical appearance

We can only pretend that physical appearance doesn’t play a huge role when it comes to choosing a partner. However, “attractive” doesn’t necessarily mean a “male model.” More often than not, it relates to the man’s overall health condition, grooming habits, body language, and self-presentation. Moreover, as a woman learns the personality of a man, her perceptions of his physical attractiveness tend to change accordingly.

5. Humor

Laughter is an emotional shortcut. Once you’ve got someone laughing at something you’ve said, it means you are smart, socially adept, and not taking yourself too seriously. According to studies conducted by the Sage Journals, humor is not only about being witty; it’s about creating an “inside world” between two individuals.

This is the “EQ” or Emotional Quotient. Do you have a way with people? Are you really listening to what the other person is saying, or are you simply waiting for your own chance to talk? Knowing how to connect and make women feel appreciated is a huge turn-on.

The mid-tier: Building the connection

7. Ambition and purpose

It’s hard to ignore a man who really gives a damn. It needn’t be anything lucrative or prestigious; you may be passionate about your art or trade, your cause, or your own goals. The notion of having a “North Star” implies that you’re self-disciplined enough to create your own destiny rather than drifting through life aimlessly, something women love, it seems.