He’s very independent

I’m a caring person. I’m very doting and I want to TAKE CARE of whoever it is I’m dating. If they’re sick, if they are having a bad day, etc.

The guy I like is very independent. He grew up in a family that made him feel like he can only rely on himself. His friends growing up, same thing. He is EXTREMELY self reliant, says he doesn’t like other people taking care of him as a result. He’s very caring and sweet with others, loves to take care of them. But when it comes to himself, he says he just doesn’t like it. It makes him uncomfortable.

I want to prove to him that he deserves to be taken care of, or that it’s okay to open up to people in that way. But I also feel like that might be overstepping, because this is who he is. I’m not trying to change who he is, I’m just not sure what I can do or where the boundary might be.

What is something I can do that makes him feel cared for? How can I go about taking care of him without overstepping his space? The last thing I want is to ignore something that makes him uncomfortable, and overstep.

But who I am at my core is someone who loves being taken care of, and loves giving to others in the same ways. Does anyone have any advice or insight on how I can express my caring side without making him feel that negativity?

For reference, I’m 21 and getting back into dating after a 6 year long relationship, where my partner was dishonest about what made him happy. I’m very worried about overstepping or crossing a line because of this, and its kind of put me in a shy-shell, if you will. Communication is very important to me. I could go on and on about that, but just know that I have major insecurity when it comes to honesty and putting myself out there. I don’t want to be a bother.

Anyway, he was my only real relationship, so dating has never really been a thing for me. Any advice is appreciated!