First of all! I love this. This was great read. The vulnerability and honesty had me the whole time.
Here's the reality, some advice is really good, some is okay and some is really bad. Deep down we know or at least should at this point discern which one is the right one for you.
I don't think dating experience is a zero-sum game where men must choose between "being themselves" and resorting to manipulation to succeed. The reality is far more nuanced, and the blame does not lie with men seeking advice but with the pervasive societal pressures that discourage open, honest, and empathetic connections.
I look at it as learning th importance of learning from experienced, thoughtful mentors who encourage men to grow in confidence, communication, and authenticity—not manipulation.
The reality is, women rarely if ever know cause hetero women dont date othet hetero women. Family just tell you old cliches from decades old advice that no one lives by anymore.
Experience above all else is the greatest teacher, either you get as much experience as possible or you learn from people who do. There is a world where both is applicable.