Starflower
How to Deal with a Big Age Difference in a Relationship
A big age difference in a relationship isn’t a new phenomenon, but somehow it remains harshly judged. Bystanders quickly form an opinion on the relationship of an older man or an older woman with a young partner. An older woman seen out with a younger man must be a nymphomaniac, a younger woman with an older man is suspected of being a gold digger. The older man is looking to recoup his lost youth with a younger woman, while a younger man wants to brag about sleeping with an older woman. Pop psychology at its best. If you’re lucky, your friends will support you, but if there is a considerable age difference between you and your partner, be prepared for disapproval to some degree.
There are three ways to deal with a big age difference in a relationship:
1. Before you can convince others that your relationship is for real, you need to be sure yourself. How well do you know your partner? Are you aware of the issues your age difference might raise? Do you have a future together? Do you want a family and will that be possible with your partner? If you are sure that your partner is right for you, you should be able to convince others!
2. When you are confronted with criticism or questions from friends, don’t get defensive. Rather appreciate the fact that they are looking out for you and try to convince them that you are aware of the issues and willing to make the relationship work even in the face of adversity.
3. If there’s no convincing your friends of your relationship, there’s only one thing to do – ignore! Don’t let others’ opinions influence you, because at the end of the day there is only one person you have to please: yourself.
I see these types of relationships more and more often. I find many guys in their 50s looking for girls in their late teens. I am not sure if they are trying to recoup their lost youth, or simply get satisfaction from someone who does not like them to spend their money