When it comes to succeeding in dating and attraction, it’s less about how much value you *have* and more about how much value you can *show*.
This is where the concept of “Demonstration of Higher Value” (DHV) comes in, one of the oldest and most misunderstood principles in the game.
DHV is about showing, not telling, your worth.
Anyone can say they’re successful, but actions and subtle cues speak louder than words.
Think of human evolution—what constitutes value hasn’t changed much since the caveman era.
Strength, leadership, and social proof were valuable then, just as they are now. These traits are far more important than modern accomplishments like excelling at PowerPoint or owning a fancy car.
Value comes in many forms: competence, social proof, health, and resilience.
For example, showing you’re liked and respected by others can have a far bigger impact than bragging that you’re successful.
It’s also a lot more likely to be believed.
Even implied value, like confidence in approaching someone, can signal past success without saying a word.
Sometimes, circumstances don’t allow you to rely on these sorts of subtle DHVs.
In these cases, you can convey your value through stories—but with a twist.
You don’t want to brag.
Instead, your stories should reveal value naturally. For instance, telling a story about traveling to multiple countries showcases your adventurous lifestyle without overtly stating it.
Similarly, conveying your value through “negatives,” like joking about being bad news because you travel too much, adds intrigue and appeal.
Ultimately, DHV is about subtlety and storytelling.
It’s about weaving your best traits into interesting stories and allowing others to discover your value for themselves.
So, find your unique traits, develop your stories, and let your value shine naturally.
-Todd V
