As you search for women on www.findbride.com, you will find some who are very attractive and smart but significantly younger than you – and you may find you’re interested in getting to know them better. Many people believe age is just a number, others have doubts about long-term success in a relationship with a much younger woman. You’ll find yourself wondering: Is there an optimal age difference? Could we live a long and happy life together in spite of our age difference? Will a younger wife remain faithful? What will family and friends have to say about our relationship? Can this work at all?

Statistics show that most people end up with a partner close to their age — three to five years on either side tends to be the norm. But it’s not uncommon to see couples who are 10, 15 or more years apart in age.

When there is a large age gap, a couple often have differences in modes of communication, interests and lifestyle. Sociologists and psychologists say a couple should feel comfortable with the age difference and be compatible enough to be able to satisfy and complete each other in a positive way and bring out the best in each other. It might be possible to find a 20-year old with the maturity level of a 30-year old due to life experience, outlook, goals and culture, but this is rare. If you do enter into a relationship with a woman 20+ years younger, be sure you understand the potential pitfalls. The most important elements of a happy long-term relationship are a similar outlook, respect and mutual caring.

The good news is – even with a significant age difference, it still can work

Foreign women tend to be more mature – European women tend to be more mature than Western women of the same age. Many Ukrainian and Russian women already have established careers by the age of 24 due to the way the educational system is set up. This maturity is generally manifest in romantic relationships as well.

Sharing similar interests and hobbies can help – Finding common ground is a good way to counter the effects of a big age difference. Shared interests and hobbies can help keep the relationship exciting and fresh.

Be clear about life goals – A younger woman will likely want to have children. If you are 20 or 30 years older, will you be willing? Be sure you understand each other’s life goals before you make it official.

Consider the potential loss of family support – Cultural, social and religious differences might cause some families to feel that a big age difference is too great an obstacle and may disown you or her. Hopefully the love between you will be strong enough to withstand being cut off from the family support system.

Remember that age is truly just a number – You will be dating a person, not a birthdate. The sooner you get the number out of your mind, the easier it should be to concentrate on what you have to offer each other.

Make sure your motivations are healthy – If you seek a relationship with a much younger woman, be sure you want it for the right reasons. It's not unusual for an older divorced or widowed man to seek out a much younger woman. He may be seeking assurance that he has not lost his sexual appeal, for example. In all cases, remember that you are dating a real person with real emotions who was not put on earth to ease your anxieties.

Contact me, if you have any suggestions on the topic… I am ready to be at hand and to help.

Your Single Love Expert

Julia