Why Men Should Be Okay With Women Paying On Dates

For many contemporary heterosexual singles, the question of who should pay on the first date is filled with uncertainties: Is she interested in splitting the bill? Does he prefer to cover the costs on early dates? Why is the issue of who pays so often tied to gender roles?

A 2019 survey by the online dating site Elite Singles, which included responses from 300,000 singles, revealed that 63% of men believed they should pay on the first date. Interestingly, 46% of women surveyed shared this view.

But as a society when are making progress towards equality, here are some of the reasons why men should be okay with women paying on dates.

1. Promotion of Equality and Partnership
Equality is a cornerstone of modern relationships. When both partners share the financial responsibility, it underscores the idea of equality and mutual support. Men being okay with women paying sometimes helps balance the dynamics within the relationship, showing that both individuals contribute equally, not only financially but in all aspects.

Also read: Things One Needs To Stop Romanticising In A Partner

2. Reflects Modern Gender Roles
Traditional gender roles are evolving, and with more women in the workforce and achieving financial independence, the dating scene should reflect this shift. Men accepting that women can pay sometimes aligns with modern views on gender roles where both genders are seen as capable and independent.

3. Financial Fairness
Dating can become expensive, and expecting one person to bear the entire financial burden is not fair. When men are open to women paying, it distributes the financial load fairly, especially when both partners are earning. This can be particularly relevant in long-term dating scenarios where regular outings can add up in terms of cost.

Also read: 5 Signs It’s Time To Take Your Relationship To The Next Level

4. Empowering Women
Allowing a woman to pay can be empowering. It lets her express her agency and not feel indebted or reliant on the man. This autonomy can foster a sense of empowerment and confidence in women, beneficial for the individual and the relationship.

5. Understanding and Respect for Personal Finance
Everyone has different financial situations, and being flexible about who pays demonstrates understanding and respect for each other’s financial state. It acknowledges that financial responsibilities and capabilities can vary and that support in a relationship can take many forms.

6. Building Trust and Teamwork
When both partners take turns paying, it can help build trust and a sense of teamwork. It shows that both parties are willing to invest in the relationship, not just emotionally but financially. This collaborative approach can enhance the bond between the partners.

7. Setting a Precedent for Future Relationships
In the context of broader social impact, accepting and normalizing women paying on dates can set a healthy precedent for future generations. It teaches younger people that relationships are partnerships where responsibilities, whether financial or otherwise, are shared.

8. Reducing Pressure
The traditional norm of men always paying on dates can create unnecessary pressure and expectations. Men feeling comfortable with women paying helps reduce this pressure and makes dating a more relaxed, enjoyable experience for both parties.