Why do some people feel the need to brag about doing normal adult things?

[YollyM]

I went out on a date with this one guy who was constantly bragging about his "achievements" , unprovoked. He said things like "you know I've a stable job that pays me well, my own place and drive my own car".

The way he was telling me these things was almost like he was waiting for applause and praise. I mean he was grown a grown man, he was 26yrs old.

As adults aren't we suppose to have stable income, a place to live and a car to get from point A to point B?

Oh and he's not the only person I've encountered who felt the need to flex about adulting (I know that's not a word but you get me).

[Lionman95]

What you have to understand is that guys often times do that not necessarily because they want your applause but it´s their way of attention seeking.
It should be normal that people should have a place to live, a car and a stable income but for guys it´s the thing that many define through.
I think the best way to handle is to ignore his bragging tone and show him that you acknowledge that and that like him being ambitious but at the same time show him that it´s something he can put you down with in a way that you also have a career to offer.
Don´t take too much how a guy brags because it´s useful information mixed with trashtalk.

[Lionman95]

Sorry I meant that it's NOT something he can put you down with. It's good that he's hard working but it's no superpower.

[Ironic_Method]

My guess is that many people don't have those things and in general is something a LOT of women put as a requirement on their dating profiles (even if they themselves don't fit that criteria).

[YollyM]

I guess you're right, some people do find minimalistic things like being able to take care of yourself like any other adult should be able to as something great.

And you are right about some women.

[FilmGuy93]

If you don't know how to function as an adult, then doing so successfully is an achievement.

[Shy_Steve]

He is just trying to impress you and make him seem more Attractive to you.

[YollyM]

He actually achieved the opposite, how could he possibly impress me with something so minimalistic. All adults should be independent, I don't think that there's anything great about taking care of yourself as expected.

Thanks for your take!

[EnglishEuropean]

Deep-seated insecurity due to unresolved childhood trauma.

[maximumpower]

Maybe he's proud of it.
Maybe he has reason to be.
Not much you can do about it, tho.

[panamared1]

Immature