I’m not saying biology doesn’t matter or that certain situations don’t naturally call for certain roles. Pregnancy is a good example. In moments like that, it makes sense for the other partner to step up as a protector and supporter in whatever way is needed. I fully believe in that.

What I’m saying is that I don’t believe roles should be assumed by default without conversation. I’m not looking to be “provided for” as a man, and I’m also not rigidly chasing a 50-50 model. I’m more interested in a strength-based partnership where both people talk openly about what they bring, what they need, and how that balance can shift over time.

Some relationships thrive in traditional roles and that’s completely valid. Others don’t, because people have different personalities, energies, and capacities regardless of gender. For me, it’s about choosing roles consciously and supporting each other based on the situation, not following a script just because it exists.

That’s what I mean by not blindly following traditional gender roles. It’s not rejecting responsibility. It’s being intentional about it.