I (24F) have been seeing someone for 3 weeks (44M). We get along well and seem to be compatible. He has worked in retail as a manager for the last decade. His pay is between $15-17hr. I work in distribution, my pay being $24/hr.

I’m feeling unsure about things because of our pay difference. I graduated this year and am actively looking for jobs in my field. At some point I will most likely be making much more than I am now. I feel like if he is ok with settling with that pay for so long, then he may settle in other areas in life. I am a very ambitious person and would like that quality in my partner.

I also don’t want to be in another relationship where I’m footing most of the bills. I don’t want to take care of a man in that aspect and don’t expect the same from him. I want an equal partnership. Because of our large pay difference, I can assume a larger portion of the bills would be on me.

I’ve been given mixed advice on this. Some say to make my expectations clear to him to see if he’s willing to make an effort to better himself, others say don’t bother. I don’t want to end things early if it’s an issue that can be resolved. I know men can be sensitive when it comes to the topic of money. How can I gently bring this concern up to him, if necessary?