This article includes a discussion of six mistakes that age gap couples can make, and how to resolve them if you do make them.
6 Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1
Expecting that your relationship is immune to challenges and blaming relationship problems on the age difference instead of addressing them. See our other article on how to communicate effectively in age gap relationships.
Mistake #2
Not being sensitive to the unique challenges of each partner’s place in life. For example, if one person is at the end of his or her career or retired and the other partner is still deciding what he or she wants to do with his or her life.
Try to walk in your partner’s shoes and understand where she or he is coming from, especially in regards to where they are in life.
Mistake #3
Assuming that each of you won’t change or grow with time. People can change at any point in life. The point is to try and grow together or try to at least respect the changes.
In any type of relationship, it’s important to try and grow together instead of growing apart. Even if you have differing interests, at least try and be supportive of each other.
Mistake #4
Not respecting your partner’s previous life events. Remember, the experiences that each partner has had made him or her into the person he or she is today. The past cannot be changed.
Mistake #5
Not respecting your partner’s difference in cultural references. It’s very important to respect each other’s preferences for movies, music, etc. Be especially careful about making fun of your partner’s taste in various things.
Mistake #6
Not expecting or learning how to handle judgment from others around your age gap. It can be especially hurtful if family or friends don’t accept your relationship. You have to learn to work around it and deal with it, otherwise it can be very damaging to your relationship.
Don’t miss our other article on how to handle criticism from family and friends.
Conclusions
Age gap relationships can have unique challenges. This article includes six mistakes that you might make, plus some tips on how to resolve these mistakes.
Listen to the podcast episode for this topic below, or check out the YouTube episode.
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