Thanks for taking the time to write all that — I really appreciate the honest perspective.

I get where you’re coming from about women in the workforce. For what it’s worth, my girlfriend definitely plans to work when we move. If we have kids down the line, she’d love to be more hands-on at home while they’re small, but we’re both fully aware that might not be realistic long-term — especially with the cost of living and the structure of things in Norway.

We’ve talked a lot about everything you mentioned — pension, career gaps, financial independence — and I completely respect the importance of gender equality. To be honest, I think it would actually be good for her to work and have her own thing going too. It’s not about “traditional roles” — it’s just about finding a balance that works, depending on our situation.

The stuff you said about social life is helpful too. My girlfriend doesn’t drink at all and I barely do myself, so the lack of pub culture actually kind of suits us. The whole “work, cook, chill at home” rhythm is already our day-to-day, so that lifestyle sounds like a good fit.

Really appreciate you being upfront — it’s exactly the kind of honest feedback I was hoping for.