Age & Dating … Does Age Really Matter?

BY BART SMITH, AUTHOR OF B.S. THE BOOK

Were you expecting the answer to be "No"? Then, would you be surprised if I told you, "Yes, age really does matter." There are identifi able situations where age can, in fact, signifi cantly impact a relationship. Considered below are several of those situations.

Two very young people … Dating for very young adults should focus on socializing with others, attending events, wholesome fun and the like. Very young people should be cautioned against involvement in activities that are more appropriate for mature adults who have an understanding of actions and consequences in emotional and sexually related areas of life. These issues can run very deep and require the experience and wisdom which only comes from maturity.

A younger person dating an older person … Both people need to be aware of potential differences in experience, preferences with regard to dating activities, maturity, conduct and manners and life wisdom generally.

Women, if you’re dating an older man, bear in mind; he will act like an older man. So, don’t always expect him to match your level of life experience, as would a young man your age. At his age, he may have already experienced many of the things you’re just learning about. He may be inclined to move into more mature levels within a relationship than you are prepared to deal with at your young age.

On the flip side, dating an older man has its benefi ts. Typically, an older man is more experienced. You can expect him to make fewer "mistakes," offer more choices in activities for the two of you, treat you more as an adult, exhibit better manners and more often is more affectionate.

Men, if you’re dating a younger woman, bear in mind, she will act like a younger woman. So, don’t always expect her to match your maturity level as would a woman your age. Age and experience cause people to mature in the areas of manners, behaviors, likes and dislikes.

On the hand, dating a younger woman has its benefi ts; such as, a fresh perspective on life, high energy levels and refreshing youthful behavior.

Women, as stated earlier, there are both precautions and benefi ts to dating someone younger than you. A fresh perspective on life, high energy levels and of course, a refreshing youthful attitude.

All this, coupled with a younger level of maturity, less life experience and the likelihood a younger man might not treat you like the mature woman you are, may create awkward moments in the relationship. If you’re dating a younger man, you must be aware of his (youthful) behaviors, manners and maturity.

Finally, bear in mind, if your relationship lasts longer than a few years, the differences in compatibility, due to age, may become greater and could possibly destroy the relationship itself. This happens. Just be aware.

An older woman (45+) and an older man (45+) … Both parties need to be aware of limitations due to age and health; abilities as it relates to specifi c (physical) activities; fi nancial conditions; extended family relationships (e.g., both parties may have grown children with their own children); habits and behaviors; and "baggage" due to accumulated life experiences.

With due consideration regarding the above areas of concern, where compatibility is high and the affection for one another rings true, "go for it!" You’ve been given the opportunity to share your life with another human being. Make the most of life. Life still has so much to offer both of you, no matter the age.