When it comes to dating and relationships, the "ick" can really put a damper on things. A harmless yet unattractive trait can be all it takes to turn a potential partner into yet another ex.
Last week, a woman on the British forum Mumsnet asked for advice after admitting that her boyfriend of less than a year is beginning to give her the ick. Why? Because he doesn't earn as much money as she does, causing her to foot the bill.
The user shared how she has been dating her boyfriend for a number of months. Her DP (darling partner) makes a lot less than she does.
Because of their differences in finances, OP is beginning to feel the ick.
About 6 months before she began dating DP, OP divorced her financially abusive ex-husband. They have a daughter together, whom OP supports on her own.
According to OP, DP recently made a career change which came with a severe pay cut. He only makes £25K (about $31K USD), while she earns at least quadruple that amount in a similar industry.
OP pays for their dates, as well as other things such as trips. DP stays at OP's place often as well. This is an issue for OP, who wants them to be 50:50 in all expenses. She's talked to DP about it, and he had begun to work hard to begin earning more.
His salary has not increased, and he is not on track to earn as much as OP wishes. Because of OP's past relationship and the time it took for her to recover both emotionally and financially, a partner with a decent salary is important to her. For these reasons, OP is wondering if she should call the relationship off.
Users understood where OP was coming from, offering their own insights.
Users suggested that OP stop paying for DP's expenses, which could prompt him to begin working harder.
Some users felt that OP and her partner's values didn't align, and it was probably best if they cut things off.
Many users felt that the relationship could work so long as DP picked up most of the housework to compensate for his lower salary.
While their situation could work, commenters worried that OP would be the one earning the most money and doing the most housework.
OP and DP have only been together for 8 months, and it makes sense that his salary hasn't increased in that time.
Users wondered if OP was setting DP up for failure with her expectations.
Though many users offered their insight, it's up to OP to decide if she can get over the ick or if she should just end the relationship.
h/t Daily Mail
