The obvious signs of an unhealthy relationship are usually the big stuff. Cheating, lying, stealing maybe. But there are also some subtle ways that a relationship can be damaging and in need of repair or release.
For example, when your partner never attends couples events with your friends. The “mystery” significant other that you talk about, but never shows up for you. Granted, strong independent women in relationships love “me” time out, but when you’re going alone to almost everything, it really shows (usually!) that they could care less.
Other times, women might find that they start to feel like their partner’s needs take precedence over their own – instead of building a relationship in which both parties feel like equals, one partner becomes dominant and the other perhaps more passive, and along for the ride.
This can lead to resentment and difficulty trusting that our partner truly wants us to be happy and fulfilled.
Or, when you’re out together and he or she never snaps of picture of you (…gorgeous you!!), why don’t they want to remember this moment? Definitely a 21st Century type situation here, but worth noting and addressing perhaps. I mean, what the …?
More signs of an unhealthy relationship are when you change into a different person. Know anyone who changes into their partner? Dresses like them? Starts to hang out only with their friends and family? Sees you less and less? Then crashes and burns and has to re-identify themselves? Just like every partner before this one. They go through a horrible breakup and it starts over again.
How can you avoid falling into this trap?
Stay in touch with your friends and family for one. Don’t isolate yourself. Spend time alone. Go to at least some social events alone. If your partner ever makes you feel guilty about it, know that this is a red flag in our book! Maintaining your independence is crucial to your individuality. You are a rockstar, don’t ever let an unhealthy relationship dull your shine.
From the Author:
Did a lot of this ring true for you? We understand. Through life and education, we became counselors to help women remain authentic, live in the moment, have love all around them and achieve their wildest dreams because we believe anything is possible.
We are here to support you through tough times or just have a place to talk out your ideas and struggles. We offer a 15-minute consultation by phone where you can ask any question and decide whether you want to do some work together in a therapeutic space. Learn more about us here. You got this!
