Does Age Matter In A Relationship?

There seems to be a stigma surrounding your age in a relationship. Specifically, women dating younger men, or if there is a large gap between partners. I’ve always dated someone older than me or the same age, falling into this idea that it had to be that way. Until recently that is.

My story.

The past few months I was skeptical about starting a relationship with my boyfriend who is five years younger than me. I thought, (like many others I’m sure) that I had to date someone older and that dating a younger guy was taboo or inappropriate. I was very wrong.

My boyfriend and I are in the same place in life (think that says more about me haha) and have the same values. If I had been too held up in the age gap, our relationship wouldn’t have flourished and I would have regretted it forever.

Age is just a number.

There isn’t always a correlation between age and maturity. I have met plenty of people older than me who act like they’re teenagers. What is important to remember in your relationship is how you communicate; that you trust each other and that your values align.

Values are what is important in your relationship, not your age gap.

However, sometimes age can make a difference when it comes to having kids, or getting married. Obviously, if you want these things there is a clock ticking. If you date someone 10 years younger than you and they’re not ready for that step, age in a relationship might be something to consider.

It’s 2018, don’t worry about judgement.

There are crazy things happening in the world right now, but dating a younger guy (or older girl for my male readers) shouldn’t be one of them. It’s easy to get caught up in what people think but at the end of the day how you and your partner feel is what is important to recognize.

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The world is an ever-changing place, do we really need to criticize others on their happy relationships? If you do, you need to find a hobby.

You are not alone.

If you’re still unsure, here are some inspirational couples that have big age differences. Alec Baldwin and his wife are 26 years apart and now have four children. Julianne Moore is 9 years older than her husband and still happily married. Denzel Washington is 4 years younger than his wife and they have been married for over 30 years. Hugh Jackman’s wife is 13 years older than him and their family has been called the centre of his world.

That is just a few!

The best piece of advice I can give is to not pre-judge someone based on their age. Get to know them, find out their values, life goals and what they’re looking for in a relationship. You may be presently surprised like I was by age in a relationship.

Is there a big age difference in your relationship? Did I miss any iconic celebrity duos?

Comment below, we’d love to hear your story!

Featured image source: weheartit.com