I dont believe it is the "duty " of a man. If I like someone I tell them, i don't play silly games and wait to be asked.

I had such a hard time approaching women when I was younger. I really struggled with this. When online dating came out I was so relieved. Then after I dated this absolute stunner my confidence kind of blew up big time. Nowadays I know I am not that great of a catch but my confidence is still there. I just can't be bothered to ask women out anymore. I'm over 40. I've been married before (almost twice). I know what relationships are like and just don't want the bother. I just want the sex without having to bother with the rest of it. This is why I have frequented hookers in the past, but now that I am older I don't even do that because I want to maintain my self respect.

It's funny to me now how much bullshit I used to put up with just to be in a relationship.

I've asked men to go out on a date before too instead of them always asking me out for one .

100%

I ask for what I want. I've always been that way no matter my gender.

women fear to come off as too masculine in the relationship. Initial interactions often set the vibe forward.

I asked my wife out, and she turned me down with an excuse. I didn't ask again, so she asked me out. We married almost 8 years later.

Instinct I guess. Men are ysually the pursuers.

I don’t know, I was never asked out by a woman

Is it possible you feel that way because you are driven by a particular preference (hypothetical)