HAVE A HAPPY RELATIONSHIP WITH A YOUNGER MAN
With celebrity age-gap couples being thrown into the limelight, we look at the challenges that are faced in these relationships and how you can overcome the differences
Love is a mysterious L beast and it is blind to many things – including age. Take the next potential French president Emmanuel Macron, whose wife is 25 years his senior, but with whom he is blissfully happy, or Sam Taylorjohnson, who is 24 years older than her actor husband Aaron.
CHILDREN
Truth is, men like confident women, and the wisdom and selfassured attitude of the more mature woman is often incredibly attractive. And in the modern world, where we can look fantastic well into our sixties and seventies, it is unsurprising that age-gap relationships are becoming socially acceptable.
Of course, that doesn’t make them simple, and if you’re an older woman dating a younger man, there are some very clear deal breakers that need to be explored. If you have teenage kids for example, but your new man wants a family of his own, then you need to consider whether you’re in a position to give him one. Before you get in too deep and end up smitten, make sure you broach the subject of family. Letting him know that babies aren’t an option, or that you’re open to exploring options, will allow him – and you – to make an informed choice.
FAMILY ISSUES
You may also have a bumpy ride with your nearest and dearest, who may see your relationship as a little bit strange, especially if he is closer in age to your kids than he is to you. Accept that your family will have concerns, because they have your best interests at heart.
Give them time to get used to it and make sure you express how happy he makes you feel. Your happiness will change their opinion over time, and the longer you’re together, the more normal your relationship will become.
The age gap may bring a clash of generations, hobbies and opinions, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. He will love your wisdom and you’ll benefit from his zest for life. As long as you can share your interests, the relationship won’t fail.
As long as you’re happy and in love, you’re blessed no matter how many years lie between you.