Ditch the damsel in distress drama and be your true smart, independent, headstrong self because modern men are attracted to women who can hold their own.

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Iowa, “men are increasingly interested in women who are intelligent, educated, and financially stable,” reports Live Science. These men are part of a generation who “grew up with educated women as their mothers, teachers, and role models,” shared Christine Whelan, who spearheaded the study.

Need further proof? Check out the slideshow below and see why men love the real you!

(Screencap from How I Met Your Mother courtesy of CBS)