Having an absent father and being raised primarily by my stepmother contributed to me becoming quite needy in relationships. I vividly recall desperately pleading for a girl to date me and crying many times in my youth. Despite being decent looking and fit, I struggled to find a partner, even losing my virginity later in life in my 20s.
Two things helped me transform:
First, reading "The Way of the Superior Man" which advocates that men should be less needy in relationships. This resonated with me. I made a firm commitment that I would remain unwavering in my determination to never again be needy - even if it meant staying single. This shift paved the way to soon meeting my wife, although in hindsight I wonder if I rushed into marriage after so many painful years alone.
Second, embracing certain aspects of the "red pill" theory. Daily practices that have helped me include: giving myself alone time, speaking less, taking responsibility for my home and car, viewing sex as something I gift versus get, and dealing with her emotionality by treating her like a daughter.
While I still have more progress to make, these changes have brought greater self-respect, better reception from my wife, and an overall improvement in my marriage. My learnings may offer hope for other men struggling with similar issues on their journey.