Does a Man’s Money Matter?

Although I firmly believe women and men deserve fair and equal treatment in the public sphere, in my personal life, I’m a mess of contradictions.

Through hard work, focus, and dedication, I achieved career success and to a certain extent, financial independence.

Like many modern-day women, I can take care of myself. But, boy, it sure would be nice if I didn’t have to.

To put it bluntly, I want a man who earns enough money to financially support me. There. I said it.

I know my admission will provoke some to paint me as a gold digger. Let me add this; I won’t entertain the thought of dating a guy whom I find intellectually or physically unattractive.

I’m not impressed by financially irresponsible men who conspicuously display their wealth.

Additionally, my primary goal in a relationship is to help my significant other be better than he was when I found him.

With that said, despite out earning a majority of American men, I still innately desire a partner who can carry me when I’m weak.

broke manAm I greedy?

I don’t think so.

To stave off verbal crucifixion, allow me to pre-defend my position.

So *cracks knuckles* here goes.

I appreciate chivalry.

If I’m nearing a closed door, I want my guy to jump ahead of me and open it. Surely, I possess the muscular strength and dexterity to do it myself.

If I strap on a pair of 5-inch heels for a night out in New York City, when I feel the sensation of fiery nails piercing the balls of my feet, I want to cling to my guy’s back while he carries me to the subway.

On a rare cold, sunny, rainy afternoon, if my honey has a jacket, sunglasses, and an umbrella, I want ’em all–assuming I didn’t have the good sense to bring my own. (I guess we could share an umbrella, but I’ll hold on to it. Gotta make sure I’m 100% shielded from the rain.)

When the server arrives with the dinner bill, my wallet will remain tucked away in my purse while my boyfriend pays the check. And no, I do not want to leave the tip.

Of course, I’m not habitually careless or unreasonably expectant.

For the most part, I’m a sensible chick.

I open plenty of doors, endure the discomfort brought on by a poorly chosen outfit, and pay for my fair share of meals.

But I’m just sayin’, I don’t wanna. *Pouts*

My values and beliefs stem from not only my upbringing but also my biology. Regardless of how much money I make, I’m a woman. And as a woman, I find it difficult to shake my attraction toward a man who slaughters big game and drags it home for mama to cook.

Please tell me I’m not the only self-sufficient gal who feels this way.

About the Author

Shawanda Greene is a free thinking, frugal gal whose only vices are boxed wine, lip balm and money grubbing. You can find more of Shawanda's musings at You Have More Than You Think – a productivity focused guide to maximizing the money you have to obtain more of what you want.