As Shirley Ballas, 66, 'grows close' to dance student 30 years her junior, expert reveals why age-gap couples can be the perfect match - but only if you don't make these mistakes

They say love knows no bounds, and that is certainly the case for a growing number of celebrity couples that share an age gap that spans decades.Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas is speculated to be the latest famous face starting a budding romance with a younger partner - with the show's head judge, 66, reportedly 'growing close' to dancer Giuseppe Nonnis, 36.Shirley and Giuseppe were spotted on a loved-up dog walk over the weekend, where they appeared close as the handsome Italian put his arm on her back while queuing for a cafe.The suggested romance has surprised many, perhaps because of the 30-year age gap between them, while Giuseppe's mother Franco Nonnis was also said to have been taken aback by the speculation.Age-gap relationships are, however, certainly not uncommon - with David Foster, 76, and Katharine McPhee, 42, sharing an age gap of 35 years and seven years of marriage, while Catherine Zeta-Jones, 56, and her husband Michael Douglas, 81, tied the knot 25 years ago.But with age becoming seemingly less of a consideration when selecting a partner, is dating older the secret to a successful marriage?According to Phil Macleod, psychologist and Founder of Thought Reader, building a romance with an individual older than you can 'strengthen' your relationship - as long as you avoid falling victim to these key mistakes... Strictly's Shirley Ballas is said to be the latest famous face starting a budding romance with a younger partner - with the show's head judge, 66, reportedly 'growing close' to dancer Giuseppe Nonnis, 36 (both pictured)1. YOU CAN BALANCE EACH OTHER OUTOlder partners can offer wisdom and life experience, while younger partners may bring fresh energy and new ideas. This dynamic can create a strong balance for lasting success. Some couples can also find age-gap relationships to be more stable, as the older partner may be more emotionally mature or secure in life or career, which can lead to a stronger foundation for the partnership.After experiencing perhaps an emotionally unbalanced relationship or simply trying to break past relationship patterns, you might find yourself drawn to an age-gap relationship. The older partner often seems more emotionally available, established, and grounded, which can feel reassuring if the other person has had past disappointments. But it is important not to place all of the pressure on the older partner or unconsciously assume the burden is on them. It's also important to remember that age alone does not bring emotional maturity, sometimes it's the younger partner who brings that, what’s important is that there is a harmony and balance in the relationship.2. IT CAN SIGNAL YOU'RE READY FOR SOMETHING SERIOUS Age-gap relationships are, however, certainly not uncommon - with David Foster , 76, and Katharine McPhee , 42, sharing an age gap of 35 yearsConsciously dating an older partner can signal that the younger partner is ready to take this new relationship seriously and settle down, setting the positive tone right from the first date.However, the downside, or mistake, could be indicating that to your new partner or others far too soon. It normally takes time for you both to know that you work well together as a couple. The honeymoon period where happy hormones fill the brain can sometimes cloud our judgement and what could be right for now might not suit you or your new partner in the longer term.With all relationships, but especially ones with age gaps, it's often better to take your time and find your rhythm, through many different situations becoming happier and more confident that this is a lasting relationship.3. YOU CAN FEEL MORE EMOTIONALLY SECUREMore life experience from dating an older partner might feel like there is less drama in your life. An older partner may have a better understanding of themselves, what they want from a relationship and how they deal with disagreements. That can make a relationship feel calmer and more emotionally secure.The mistake is assuming that age automatically equals your new partner has emotional maturity - it doesn't necessarily mean that. It’s a good tip to look at how somebody communicates, handles conflict and responds to your needs rather than assuming their age means they will be the more mature partner. Communication is key to any lasting relationship, alongside love and trust.4. THEY CAN BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS According to Phil Macleod, hypnotherapist, psychologist and Founder of Thought Reader, building a romance with an older individual can 'strengthen' your relationship. Pictured: Catherine Zeta-Jones , 56, and her husband Michael Douglas , 81An older partner is appealing for someone who likes to broaden their horizons and try new things. It can suit a curious personality who relishes new experiences and likes to explore. For instance, your brain may respond more to novelty, so a different perspective, interests or experiences that a new partner brings can make a relationship feel exciting and stimulating.The mistake couples can make is the skew can be one-sided if there is no balance. The needle can move too far in one direction if they don't both consciously make an effort to do what the other wants. Even if the other party is happy to go along, it can become reliant on one person which is unfair all round.The key is that both people show interest in the others views and new experiences, whilst they may not be the same as each other the relationship is strongest when there is curiosity, and respect in each other's worlds and each other's views.5. YOU MAY COMMUNICATE MORE CLEARLYAn age gap can actually make couples more conscious of communication. You know from the beginning that you may have different perspectives, experiences and expectations, so you can be more likely to talk about what you both actually want rather than simply assuming you are both on the same page. The ability to communicate more in this type of relationship is a real plus point and can strengthen the relationship, which can limit miscommunication and reduce arguments.It is often the little assumptions where problems begin to start. The mistake is avoiding the bigger conversations because things are going well. At some point you need to talk honestly and openly about what you both want from the future, particularly if you are at different stages of life - this is really important for the longevity of the relationship.An age gap does not determine if a relationship ultimately succeeds, honesty, Love and communication as well as the fun factor are all more important.