We see age gaps in adult relationships somewhat frequently. For instance, that silver fox actor has a new, younger wife. Often, age gaps between couples are met with suspicion. But why?

Experts believe the taboo nature of age gaps stems from peoples’ assumption that there is a power imbalance in these relationships. It’s believed that one party is reaping far more benefits than the other or that one party is being taken advantage of. Over time, this has become a sense of appropriateness instilled in our culture and passed down.

While an age gap presents its own unique hurdles in adult relationships, they are not automatically a bad thing, so long as both parties are genuinely interested in each other for the right reasons. Let’s look at some of these hurdles and how you can tell an age gap won’t be a problem.

They may have invented the word “paradox” specifically for this scenario. Your dream has come true. You just had your first baby. Meanwhile… you’ve never felt more stressed or confused in your entire life. How in the world will you balance out all these highs and lows?

You have been tasked with a dual mission. Of course, your top priority is to meet the needs of your new baby. Yet somehow, you cannot and must not neglect your own needs. The goal is not perfection. You won’t always get in right. But, rest assured, you will find ways to make this work.

As with so many things, talking about puberty with your kids is essential to do ahead of time. It’s all too easy to put it off or avoid talking about it altogether.

But your kids are never too young for simple, age-appropriate discussions about their bodies. Like it or not, kids often begin hearing about sex from classmates in early elementary school.

Even if you feel awkward, introducing necessary physiological information when they’re toddlers and preschoolers builds a foundation for the future.

“I am woman, hear me roar.”

Helen Reddy caused quite a stir when she released that song in 1971. Unfortunately, in 2021 – 40 years later, women are still fighting for equality in everything from the workplace to relationships.

While it might be easier to be a woman today than in the past, there are still inequalities that can make everyday life feel overwhelming at times. That has lead to some women trying to carry themselves more like men, rather than embracing their unique womanhood.

The reality is, women won’t be seen as equals if they’re changing their habits to be more like their male counterparts.

Instead, it’s important to focus on finding your strength on your own, as a woman.

If you’re finding that to be easier said than done, find things that inspire you to boost that strength.

When the time comes that we’re finally able to tally up the total cost of COVID-19, there will be one category that will likely get ignored: relationships.

The diverse and relentless impact of this pandemic is wreaking havoc on our collective mental health. This reality creates a treacherous terrain for couples from coast to coast. Stress, in general, is challenging to your connection and 2020 is fast becoming ground zero for stress. How can you recognize this trend and what can you do about it?