Lover of Old Men

Dear Coach,

I tend to date men who are much older than me (I am 25); sometimes ten or even fifteen years older than me. I'm not at all opposed to dating men around my age, I simply don't bond as well with them. I think I am fairly mature for my age and I simply feel more comfortable conversing and finding a connection with older men. My friends find this very weird and are hesitant to "hang out" with us. Is there something wrong with this age difference that I'm not seeing? How can I help my friends to feel more comfortable with these situations?

Dear Friend,

Friends your age are not likely to accept this huge age difference because it's not traditional. It's totally okay for you to date who you feel comfortable with, but that doesn't mean your friends have to love him too. It's likely that this age difference makes them feel like they're hanging out with someone their parents’ age or at least what feels like their parents age. Another hang up dating someone that age is that their tastes and interests are different than those of people your age. That large of an age difference creates generational differences. Enjoy the people you want to, but be aware of the pitfalls of dating an older man. If he's the right guy then your friends will come around. Just remember you're into older guys and they're not.

Much love,
Your Coach