by Sabrina Jackson
In today’s era, we are all about embracing lives as strong, independent and financially savvy women who don’t need a man to take care of us. And because there are more and more women out there who have dominated the best schools and pursued lucrative careers to gain bank accounts that would crush those of their male counterparts, many of said successful women date men who fall shorter than them on the income spectrum. Unfortunately, however, these relationships often meet their demise over differing lifestyles and insecurities involving a threatened male-ego that couldn’t handle the successes achieved by a woman. So if you happen to be a lady who makes more than her guy, be sure to avoid such a fate in your relationship and check out the following tips for making it as successful as your earnings:
It’s all about respect. When it comes to dating a guy who doesn’t rake in as much dough as you do, turn up the Aretha Franklin and make sure that you are giving each other some R-E-S-P-E-C-T! If you have decided that a man’s financial standing has nothing to do with your feelings for him, then don’t give him a hard time for his choice in his career, his education level or the amount of bread that he brings home. A relationship without mutual respect is not a relationship—so it is equally important that the respect you give is returned to you regarding the same choices you’ve made in your life.
Consider lifestyles. Sure, when you are with a man who isn’t quite as successful as you, then most likely there are a few differences in your lifestyles that could play a determining factor in whether or not the relationship will work. What is he doing when you’re slaving away to make a hard-earned living? Does he lack motivation? Can he barely support himself so he relies solely on you? Is he at the bars or out shopping with your money? These kinds of behaviors can make high-income women feel used and can lead to questions like, “Is he really interested in me, or is he just interested in my black American Express card?” Sometimes, lifestyles just aren’t a fit and if you aren’t willing to foot the bill for him to enjoy the same luxuries as you, then it might be time to let the relationship go.
Let him be the man. Independence is one of the most important traits that guys look for in a counterpart—and being a financially independent woman is attractive, but when you are constantly taking care of the dinners, movies and other nights out together, such behavior can be emasculating for a guy. Men who are legit and don’t intend to mooch off of a woman have the inner need to feel like the provider and protector—so let him take the checks from time to time. And if he doesn’t have the funds to wine and dine you on the town every night, dinners at home can make for intimate, romantic evenings together.
Own your achievements. Many guys feel inferior and intimidated by women who make more money than them. But if you are with a guy who makes you uncomfortable or makes you feel the need to apologize for the successes that you’ve achieved—forget him! When you’ve busted it to create an amazing life for yourself marked by a solid education, a successful career and comfortable lifestyle afforded to you by the big paycheck you cash every two weeks, then you deserve everything that you have earned—no one can take that away from you. Be proud and continue to be the strong, successful, independent woman you are.
Sabrina Jackson is a guest post author who shares with us her tips for dating a man who makes less money than you. Additionally, Sabrina contributes articles to Free Online Dating Sites where she educates online singles about safe methods of dating on the web.
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