The Times They Are A-Changin' and gender parity is becoming more the norm in politics, business, entertainment, etc. For men and women still seeking someone, it can be hard to keep up with the times. When it comes to dating and developing a relationship this can be uniquely challenging because many of you out there are still in search of a more traditional relationship. Some gender roles have stood the test of time, and paying the bill is no exception. 

There's a lot to be said when it comes to who to picks up the check. What he or she does when the tab comes will let you know where they stand with you and where you stand with them. Here's a handy guide that should be helpful in knowing how to handle yourself when the time comes. 

First of all, if you're a man concerned about how much the bill will come to, take the woman somewhere inexpensive. But always foot the bill.

When a man picks up the check he's being a gentleman and he's likely looking forward to seeing the woman again. If he lets the woman pick up the check he's either self centered, inconsiderate, unstable or all of the above. If a woman plans a date she can pay the bill if she likes, but my suggestion is to be discreet and subtly settle up so that he doesn't get a chance to pay for it first. If a woman was asked on a date and she intentionally pays the tab, it may look like she's over compensating. 

When a man asks a woman if she would split the bill, he's not only indicating that he has no interest in seeing her again, he's also letting her know that he thinks the feeling is mutual. If a woman offers to split the bill she's usually indifferent about the date and would see him again as long as he refused her offer and picks up the check himself.

The polite thing to do is for a man to pay the bill and for a woman to offer to leave the tip. If the guy is a class act he should kindly refuse and pay for the whole thing himself.