Not that it's a bad thing to have your man initiate things like first date asking and proposing, but we do live in a day and age where men prefer a co-pilot rather than just someone along for the ride.

Your man wants you to speak up and talk about your wants and needs. It takes two to tango; meaning you are both in the relationship, so you both need to contribute to be happy and satisfied with the relationship.

So here are five ways your man wants you to step it up and take the wheel with him:

1. Tell him what your dream date is

Sometimes in relationships we get caught in the same dating rut, always turning to the same old thing.

Also, there are times when your guy just runs out of ideas and doesn't know what you would really like to do.

Don't be afraid to plan a date once in a while, or to tell him about a dream date you would want to go on. He will be grateful for the inspiration and gladly do it for the woman he loves.

2. Don't be afraid to have deep conversations

Men communicate differently than women do. There are times when women think about things that men wouldn't necessarily think about or even bring up.

Don't be afraid to ask him deep and profound questions or bring up topics like religion or politics. If you are in it for the long haul, you will discuss them eventually anyway.

A man loves a woman he can discuss life with and have intellectual conversations with; so don't be shy about bringing these things up.

3. Sometimes you just have to spell it out

As mentioned above, men can think very differently than women do.

There are most likely things that are pretty obvious to you, but not so obvious to him.

Do him a favor and be very clear, and over-communicate. He will be grateful for the insight and how much you know he wants to understand you.

4. Be the one to reach out

He wants to hear from you.

Don't be afraid to initiate contact during the day, whether via call or text.

Just like it does yours, it will bring a smile to his face when he knows the person whom he cares about is thinking about him, even when you're apart.

5. Be the yin to his yang

He has certain skills and abilities, as do you.

Your man will appreciate when you can pick up the slack where he lacks in a certain area, and he will want to reciprocate that with you.

He knows you are a strong, beautiful and intelligent woman, and he feels honored to have your help in life.