11 Life Lessons on Relationships from Women in their 40s and 50s
As women enter their 40s and 50s, they often reflect on their lives and wonder what they would have done differently in their twenties and thirties. Fortunately, the women of Reddit’s AskWomen community are here to offer insights and advice based on their own experiences. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common themes and life lessons that emerged from this dynamic online community.
You can’t fix him, no matter what he tells you. He’s choosing to be that way.
KikiChrome
Whatever your gut is telling you now, you will wish you had listened to it
Cocoangels
Trusting your intuition may seem like a cliché, but there’s a reason why it’s a timeless piece of advice. The little voice inside your head knows more than you think, and ignoring it could lead to regret down the line. So next time your gut speaks up, pay attention – you might just thank yourself later.
If you have to ask “should I” (break up, stay, whatever) you already know the answer
Sylland
Look at the way a man treats women he has no sexual interest in. Misogynists will reveal themselves very early on if you pay attention to this – they may manipulate you into thinking they’re great, but they can’t seem to resist any opportunity to treat women they don’t find fuckable (the old, the fat, their relatives) like they have no value.
Agitated_Gazelle_223
It’s often said that the true measure of a person’s character is how they treat those who can do nothing for them. And when it comes to men and their treatment of women they have no sexual interest in, this rings especially true. It’s a sobering observation that misogynists will often expose themselves through their behavior towards women who they deem as unattractive or otherwise unworthy of their attention. Even if they attempt to hide behind a veneer of charm and politeness, their true nature will inevitably reveal itself in the way they speak and act towards these women. It’s a telling sign that should not be overlooked, and one that speaks volumes about a person’s true character.
Set a simple boundary and see what they do about it. If they ignore it or make a big deal about it then move on.
Umm_is_this_thing_on
Do not marry or have kids until living solely with your partner for 2 years minimum. There is a lot you will learn about them in that time, and it may not be what you like.
levitymargret
Do not doubt your initial gut instincts! Do not convince your self his good out weighs his bad if his bad is toxic. Trust & believe, chances are he or she isn’t EVER gonna change his ways.
Shawty43
If you’re thinking about getting serious with a guy or having kids with him, ask yourself this question— if my kid turned out exactly like this dude, would I be proud of my kid? Cause chances are, that’s your future.
Moose-and-Squirrel
This is a powerful thought that can help you see beyond the surface level of your relationship and envision what your future could hold. After all, the qualities and values that you admire in your partner are the same ones that your child will likely emulate. So, take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you and your potential future family, and make a decision that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Him having No friends is a red flag. If your friends and family aren’t keen – pay attention!
woahwoahout
Don’t waste time with someone who doesn’t make you feel safe, happy and loved. These should be minimum requirements.
whats_a_bylaw
While being lonely sucks, singledom is what you make it. Having a partner should add to the enjoyment of your life, not be constant work. Don’t stay in a relationship just because you are afraid of being single.
Equivalent-Board206
Embracing your singledom means taking control of your own happiness and pursuing the things that bring you joy and fulfillment, without the pressure of maintaining a relationship that isn’t working. While having a partner can be a wonderful addition to your life, it should never be at the cost of your own well-being. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that being single is a choice, not a sentence, and it can be a time for personal growth and self-discovery.
Final Thought
In a world that often tells us to have it all figured out by our twenties, the insights and advice shared by the women of Reddit’s AskWomen community remind us that life is a journey with many twists and turns. So, let’s take these lessons to heart and approach life with a sense of curiosity, courage, and a willingness to learn from the experiences of those who came before us. Because when it comes to living our best lives, it’s never too early or too late to start.
