Girls (or anyone, for that matter) should never settle for second best in their relationships. Settling for less than what you truly desire and deserve can result in unhappiness, regret, and a lack of fulfillment in life.

On that basis, girls should never date a “broke boy” or a spend-thrift man who never wants to spend any money on them. These guys just cause stress. They want everything for nothing – love, affection, food, board, gifts – and they offer nothing in return. Dating someone who is financially unstable can potentially create stress – the exact amount of stress depends on your own individual values and expectations.

Some girls may not be concerned about their partner’s financial stability when dating, but what’s in it for you then? Unless he’s a Greek Adonis with looks and personality to die for, I’d argue very little. Guys don’t have to pay on dates all of the time, but guys who never pay are a disgrace and are not respectful to women. Here are some tips that might help you avoid dating men who are not financially stable:

Pay attention to how they spend their money: If you notice that they always seem to be broke or struggling to make ends meet, then it might be a red flag. If they constantly ask for money or can’t seem to manage their finances, it’s a sign that they might not be financially responsible.

Look for signs of ambition: If you’re looking for a partner who is financially stable, then it’s important to look for signs of ambition. Does he have a stable job? Is he actively pursuing his goals? Does he have a plan for his future? These are all indicators that he’s responsible and financially stable.

Be clear about your expectations: It’s important to be honest about what you want from a partner. If you’re looking for someone who is financially stable, then make that clear from the beginning. It will save you time and prevent you from getting involved with someone who doesn’t meet your standards.

Pay attention to their values: It’s important to be with someone who shares your values, including financial values. If they have a very different approach to money and finances, it could cause issues in the relationship down the line.

Don’t ignore red flags: If you notice red flags early on, don’t ignore them. If he seems to be living beyond his means or doesn’t seem to be responsible with money, it’s likely that he will continue to be that way in the future. It’s better to be safe than sorry and not get too emotionally invested if you sense there are warning signs.

Guys who don’t look after you, provide for you or buy you drinks and meals are not worthy of your time. Move on and find the right guy for you. Instead of settling, it’s important to take the time to reflect on what you want in life and in a partner and to hold out for someone who meets all of those criteria.