When the words 'age-gap relationship' come to mind, what do you think about? While some picture a relationship that is destined to face challenges, a relationship with an ambiguous future, or, in some cases, Leonardo DiCaprio's dating life, that's not all there is to it.
Many have proven that age-gap relationships (that have a more than 5-year difference between the two parties) actually work!
The major 'red flag' that often sparks from age-gap relationships is the different stages of life the two partners could be facing. Luckily, there exists tips and tricks to face this challenge and to make the relationship WORK!
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First, it's important that both parties make it clear to one another what they want in life (this is also called social stigma). If someone is ready to make a big move in their life, such as expanding their family or settling down in their career, and the other person is not, that could cause trouble. If both partners are clear and respectful about the other's current situation (and their own), then it can definitely work.
Second, it's important that both parties treat eachother equally. Respect is KEY! In age-gap relationships, it's more likely that there will be an imbalance in certain life aspects, such as personal finances. It's important that if one partner hold privileges over the other, such as money or success, they don't hold it over the other. Your partner should feel like they're able to turn to you in difficult times rather than feel inferior to you.
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Our last tip might be the best one yet. To quote Taylor Swift, you should most definitely ignore the haters and 'shake them off!' To make an age-gap relationship work, the best thing you can do is focus on your partner and your partner only. Any outside criticism or judgement doesn't matter! As long as your relationship is happy and healthy, then that's what counts.
Age-gap lovebirds, do you agree with these words of advice?
