Why it is time to abandon some dating rules

What you need to know:
- There is no reason to take offence when a woman chooses to split the bill
Throughout our lives, we often receive impractical, unattainable, and outdated dating advice; much of it from older individuals who themselves struggled to fix or leave dysfunctional relationships. This advice frequently does not work, leaving us deprived of the fulfilling relationships we deserve while settling for those we think are merely acceptable.
In a society that remains deeply traditional, we often hesitate to pursue relationships that truly fulfil us, fearing judgment and criticism for how we choose to live and enjoy our love lives. However, it is natural for people to want to understand their compatibility with others and to make choices that feel right for them. Unfortunately, we have been conditioned to follow rules that may not suit our unique situations or desires.
Furthermore, anyone who feels like treating their partner or paying for a date should feel free to do so. Gentlemen caught in the grip of toxic masculinity, take note; women can buy you drinks, dinner, or gifts without bruising your ego, and it should not make you feel less of a man. Similarly, there is no reason to take offence when a woman chooses to split the bill. If a woman is financially independent and capable of contributing to or even supporting the relationship, it should be celebrated rather than criticised.
Shared financial responsibilities can strengthen a partnership rather than diminish anyone's role. The outdated expectation that women must domesticate themselves to prove their worth as partners is another notion we need to abandon. In this day and age, women are achieving extraordinary things. They should not have to add cooking and cleaning for adult men to their list of responsibilities just to earn love and respect. Relationships should involve joint effort in household tasks or the financial means to hire help. A woman's value is not defined by her ability to wield a broom or a spatula.
It is not essential to be close friends with your partner’s social circle. While getting along with their friends is beneficial and can create harmony, you are not obligated to dedicate your time to integrate them into your inner circle. Successful relationships do not require perfectly blended friendship groups. Ultimately, the moral of the story is to do what feels right in your relationship.
Test the waters, let what works remain, and let go of what does not. Above all, let these decisions be yours to make, free from societal pressures or outdated norms. The key is making decisions that make the overall experience of dating enjoyable.