Never before have there been so many successful single women and men. And yet today it is harder than ever to find the right partner. What is going on? Matchmaker Annemieke Dubois of Jade & Jules describes the evolution of women and the impact on today’s relationship dynamics:
Annemieke: “In an era when women are striving for equal opportunities and recognition, it is crucial to also recognise the impact of this struggle on their relationships and well-being. Take Anna, for example, a Belgian woman with a thriving career in finance, or Sarah, an entrepreneurial woman in the technology sector. Their successes give them a sense of empowerment, but they also experience challenges in their romantic relationships. Looking for a partner who appreciates and supports their strengths, they face a complex search for the right partner in a society where traditional gender roles still play a role.
It is important to recognise that women like Anna and Sarah sometimes struggle to find a like-minded partner,” adds Annemieke. The price of empowerment is sometimes loneliness. For women struggling with this dilemma, it is crucial to remember that their self-worth should not depend on their relationship status. They may remain true to themselves, pursue their needs and be open to new connections and opportunities.”
Annemieke: “But let’s also not forget that men also have their own quest in this evolving dynamic. Men can also sometimes feel lost in relationships and in how they should behave or what is expected of them. They also seek recognition in relationships and also want to be able to remain themselves in a relationship without losing their masculinity.
For them, it is important to show understanding of each other’s perspectives and needs. By working together to create healthy and equal relationships, we can strive for a society where every woman and every man has the freedom to reach their full potential, both in relationships and in personal growth.
It is therefore important to create space in dating and a relationship where men feel free to maintain their own identity and masculinity, while also being open to women’s strength and independence. Women are still looking for virile men, and men for feminine women; people who complement and enhance each other, without losing their individuality.
Let’s build a world where women and men feel supported in their search for love and happiness.
3 tips from Matchmaker Annemieke on how to deal with these evolving relationship dynamics
- Women, keep embracing your femininity: As a strong independent woman, you may also continue to allow and develop traditional feminine traits such as softness, intuition and caring, while still striving for independence, assertiveness and leadership.
- Men, be supportive and respectful: You do not lose your virility by supporting and respecting women in their ambitions, passions and personal growth, just the opposite. Encourage women to reach their full potential and be a partner who supports them in their successes and challenges. Show respect for their opinions, emotions and boundaries, and treat them with kindness and caring.
- Create a balance between giving and receiving: In a healthy relationship, there is a balance between giving and receiving from both sides. Men can be strong at the same time, as well as caring and considerate towards their partner. Women can be soft and supportive at the same time, and also run their own business with skill. Give each other space for self-expression and autonomy. Be open to the other person’s needs and desires and be willing to give without expecting anything in return. At the same time, it is important to guard your own boundaries and take space for self-care and personal growth.
As a Personal Matchmaker, Annemieke Dubois and her team Véronique and Nathalie assist self-aware singles in their search for a love partner. In May 2022, Annemieke’s first book ‘Relational Intelligence, for singles‘, published by Borgerhoff & Lamberigts, was in bookstores.