She Strengthens

Rethinking Financial Equality in Relationships

As a long-time advocate for social justice and equality, I’ve always believed that traditional notions of finances within relationships are outdated. Growing up, I was inspired by strong female characters in movies and TV shows, which instilled in me a sense of independence and conviction. Even before I entered my first relationship, I was convinced that gender roles should not dictate who pays on a date.

Challenging Traditional Norms

In my early relationships, I stuck to my principles, insisting that whoever asked the other person out should pay. However, as I grew older and entered a long-term relationship, I realized that this approach wasn’t always practical. My current boyfriend and I initially split dates 50/50, but as our relationship progressed, it became clear that he had more financial stability than I did.

A Shift in Perspective

Despite my initial reservations, we transitioned to a arrangement where he pays for most dates, and I offer to pay as a treat occasionally. This decision was not taken lightly, and we had many open and honest conversations about our financial situations. We realized that his higher income and financial prowess meant he could afford to pay for us to go out, while I couldn’t.

Mutual Respect and Understanding

Our decision was not about me surrendering my feminist values, but about recognizing the reality of our financial situation and making a choice that worked for both of us. We understand that our arrangement may not be suitable for everyone, but it’s essential to recognize that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finances in relationships.

Communication is Key

Our experience has taught us that communication is crucial in navigating financial decisions. By being open and honest about our financial situations, we’ve been able to find an arrangement that works for both of us. It’s not about one person taking control, but about finding a balance that respects each other’s contributions to the relationship.

Redefining Financial Empowerment

In the end, being a feminist is not about adhering to strict principles, but about making choices that empower and respect both partners. By acknowledging our financial differences and making a conscious decision to work together, we’ve found a sense of financial freedom and equality that works for us.