By April Littleton
Many people find themselves attracted to others who are older and/or younger than them. Dating someone who isn’t the exact same age as you isn’t uncommon. In fact, it’s almost rare to find a couple who don’t have an age gap between them. This doesn’t mean that dating someone who’s a different age doesn’t have its challenges. Sure, you’ll have plenty in common with your new boo, but you might also have quite a few differences. Cupid has some advice:
1. Be sure: Whether you’re dating someone older or younger than you, you need to be 100 percent sure that you want to be with that person. Why are you dating this specific individual? Do you see it going anywhere? Will the age difference ultimately affect your relationship? If there’s a huge difference in age, the two of you as a couple might not see eye-to-eye. One of you might be ready to settle down, while the other is still wanting to play the field a little. Just be sure the person you’re devoting your time to is worth the hassle.
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2. Find common ground: If you’re going to try to make the relationship last, you and your partner need to communicate early on what your goals and interests are. Find some hobbies you and your honey can enjoy together. Discuss whether or not you’re looking for something more long-term, or if you’re just taking it day-by-day. Make sure you really dig deep into each other’s lives. Watch your significant other’s favorite movie, eat the food he/she enjoys, etc. You might come to find that you have a lot more in common with your love than you think.
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3. Don’t make it a big deal: Many of your friends and family members might do a double take when you tell them how old your partner is, but the trick is to act like it’s no big deal. Don’t act any differently around your honey than you would anyone else. If he/she is younger than you, don’t try to act as if you know all of the new slang words people tend to use. If he/she is older, don’t pretend to be anymore mature than you are. The two of you are together for a reason. He/she obviously likes you for who you are. Be yourself around your significant other and everyone else will follow suit – regardless of how young or old they are.
Have you ever dated with an age gap? Share your experience below.
