Tracee Ellis Ross, the acclaimed actress best known for her role in the hit series Black-ish, has recently shared her candid thoughts on dating and the choices that have shaped her life. During an enlightening conversation on Michelle Obamas popular podcast, IMO, Ross elaborated on her preference for dating younger men and discussed the satisfaction she finds in her single status.

At 52 years old, Ross reflects on her past relationships and the societal expectations that often accompany them. She pointed out that many men her age are steeped in toxic masculinity, molded by cultural norms that dictate the dynamics of a relationship. A lot of men my age are steeped in a toxic masculinity and have been raised in a culture where there is a particular way that a relationship looks. Anything that starts to smell of that for me I did enough of it where I was controlled and felt like I was a possession or a prize I just have no interest in it, Ross expressed. This strong declaration underscores her commitment to not revisiting relationships that do not empower her.

Moreover, she emphasized the importance of personal growth and fulfillment over societal expectations of marriage and parenthood. Ross is not married and does not have children, a choice that has ultimately allowed her to focus on her own happiness. As much grief does surface for me around not having children and not having a partner, I still wouldnt want the wrong partner. Im not interested in that. You have to make my life better. It cant just be, Im in a relationship to be in a relationship, she explained, highlighting her desire for meaningful connections rather than settling for companionship.

Ross continued to reflect on her daily motivations and the challenges of navigating life as a single woman. So even though the grief does emerge and that comes and I hold that, I think of what Ive done, she said. She recognizes that her journey has not been easy but believes that each day presents an opportunity for growth. I wake up every morning trying to do my best. I didnt wake up one morning and be like, Im going to mess this day up. So I must be where Im supposed to be, Ross shared, conveying her philosophy of embracing lifes challenges with courage.

In closing, Ross celebrates the beauty of her individuality and the strength she has cultivated over the years. Sometimes I think of all of the things Ive done, the courage that I have had to have, and what Ive had to learn how to navigate as a single person with no one to hide behind. And Ive built a really beautiful life, she concluded, reminding her audience that self-love and personal fulfillment are paramount.