TVC E. An intimate relationship is one in which you can truly be yourself with someone who you respect and are respected by in return.
It is an emotional connection that can also be physical. It does not have to be in the context of a romantic or sexual relationship.
But here we are talking about relationship that will end up in marriage and here are five red flags that give you the green light to walk away, even when you’re not 100 percent sure you’re doing the right thing.
1. He gets violent, even if he doesn’t hit you. You may think this is a no-brainer but honestly it isn’t. Most women we know who’ve been in abusive relationships have immense strength, only to shut down in the presence of her partner’s anger and violence.
No healthy relationship can be built off a foundation of fear because you never know when his actions may escalate.
2. He cheats. Many people will say this point is debatable because lots of couples who have fidelity issues repair their relationship and end up in a better than where they were pre-cheating. But it’s not the act of cheating that’s the deal-breaker here; it’s the disrespect, broken trust and significant risk to your health. (Hello, STDs!)
With all the risks that hang in the balance for just a tiny bit of pleasure, it’s entirely inconsiderate and selfish when a man cheats on you. Do you want someone who puts his wants before your needs, like security and trust? I don’t which is why I’ve said BYE to cheating men.
3. He doesn’t claim or proclaim you. Many women will spend time in limbo-like relationships with guys who won’t give them the girlfriend title. Here’s the truth: If you’ve been dating a man for longer than six to nine months and he’s hasn’t made you an official part of his life, it’s time to MOVE ON.
Stop making excuses for why things aren’t progressing to the next level; you’ll only waste time and your time is worth more than that. These days, you don’t settle for less because you don’t want a man who makes you a bargain-bin find. If he knows your worth, he’ll claim and proclaim you and there will be few conversations about how ‘he isn’t ready.’
4. He suffers from addiction. There are plenty of honor badges to be earned by standing by your man when he’s fallen on hard times. But CAUTION if you stick with a man fighting demons, namely addiction. Addiction can range from less-severe, like cigarettes, to major issues such as drug, alcohol and sex.
Someone who suffers from an addiction will do anything – and I mean anything – to get their fix, even at the expense of those they love. So unless you’d like to be second to whatever vices he has, it may be time to ‘leave smoke.’
5. He gaslights you. This is the manipulative act of someone attempting to change your memory or perception of events in their favor, making you feel crazy or like you’ve forgotten something. But when is gaslighting a dealbreaker, you ask? The answer is when it happens!
A man who resorts to manipulative tactics to have his way or ‘win’ an argument will continue to play mind games and be dishonest with you. When you experience gaslighting in your relationships, it will make you feel crazy and your self-esteem plummeted until you understand the game that was being played. Take advantage of the situation and leave immediately; it’s the best thing you can do for yourself.