When I go on dates, I am open to talking about my salary range and expectations up front," says senior designer Felicia*, 32, who's single and dating. "It's not something I'd bring up during the early stages of dating, but I am clear on how much both of us should have in terms of spending power before getting married. Since I want to have kids, I'm also clear on how much I think we should both earn before starting a family."
Dating a man who's earning less than she does is not an instant deal-breaker, but it would factor into her decision about the longevity of the relationship. "I work hard and have seen my salary triple over the years, which has empowered me to spend on a lifestyle that I enjoy. Being in a relationship is about being on the same team, and I would want both of us to work towards a common goal with similar values and lifestyle preferences. Besides, living standards are getting more expensive, and if we have a family, the cost of living will continue to go up," she says, declining to reveal details about her salary.
It has also dawned on Felicia that as passionate as she is about her career, she might want to take a year or two off work to focus on being a mum. If that happens, it would fall on her partner to be the sole breadwinner, so it's important that he can handle the financial responsibility of raising a family. Ideally, they'd both earn $10,000 each when tying the knot, and $15,000 individually when starting a family.
FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE DOES MATTER IN THE LONG RUN
On the other hand, some couples might not see any need to disclose or combine finances. From the onset of their relationship, Deborah Tan-Pink and her husband were clear that they did not want a joint account.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Breaking Down The Benefits Of Hyaluronic Acid
Here's why this popular skincare ingredient is a potent fix for dehydrated complexions.
Heritage in a Bottle
Crafted by Swiss perfumer Christine Nagel, Barenia is the first chypre fragrance from Hermes, a seductive scent that is a dance between the delicate butterfly lily and the vibrant burst of miracle berry.
Is my adult acne caused by hormonal changes?
Quinn Chen answers.
BEST IN CLASS
MOVING AWAY FROM INTRODUCING ENTIRELY NEW PRODUCTS, BRANDS SUCH AS SHISEIDO, CLE DE PEAU BEAUTE AND SULWHASOO HAVE CHOSEN TO GO BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD TO ELEVATE TRIED-AND-TRUE FORMULAS. THESE ICONIC CLASSICS ARE MORE EFFICACIOUS AND LUXURIOUS THAN BEFORE.
Sneak Peek
We've got our sights set on these new must-haves that promise to breathe new life into tired-looking eyes.
ACTS OF SERVICE
Beauty brands are enticing customers with a range of in-store treatments and services that offer expert tips, demonstrations and pampering.
November favourites
Here are some of the must-haves you will not regret adding to your beauty shelf.
Against the rules
Step into the dark side with grunge-inspired moody tones and smoky, smudgy eyes.
Is it ever a good idea to engage in online discourse?
Sarah Bagharib answers.
GO WITH THE FLOW
Half a month in Mongolia living with nomadic families and exploring the country's storied beauty taught senior advertising strategist Uli Chan the beauty of impermanence.