The majority of us have been in a romantic relationship that is highly toxic, and it isn’t something that is always immediately apparent. They exert control over you, engage in behaviors that mentally exhaust you, and ultimately make you feel miserable. It is important to identify the red flags that characterize an unhealthy relationship and get out for the sake of your sanity. Here are six signs you ought to reconsider your relationship.
1. You start making unreasonable sacrifices
Another sign of a toxic relationship is when you start to give up things that are important to you, such as your hobbies, your friendships, or even your values, in order to keep your partner happy. This can happen gradually, over time, as you become more and more invested in the relationship. At first, these sacrifices may seem small and insignificant. But over time, they can add up and take a toll on your mental and emotional health. You may start to feel resentful, angry, or even depressed. It’s important to remember that you should never have to sacrifice your own happiness and well-being for the sake of a relationship.
2. You question your core beliefs
A healthy relationship raises your confidence, happiness, and sense of worth. Naturally, there will be times when you and your partner don’t agree 100% on everything, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still respect and try to understand each other. Problems arise when your partner is so dominant and set in their views that you begin to question every aspect of yourself, and become highly insecure as a result. While being flexible and keeping an open mind are virtues, you should never compromise on your principles and let your partner turn you into something you’ve never wanted to be.
3. You aren’t growing as a person
Stagnancy in your relationship can manifest in many ways. For example, your partner may not support your goals or dreams. They may discourage you from pursuing your passions or making changes in your life. They may also be controlling and manipulative, trying to dictate your choices, limit your contact with others, or make you feel guilty about doing things without them. In some cases, your partner may be abusive, either verbally or physically. This can create a climate of fear and intimidation, making it difficult to take risks even when necessary. These are clear signs that your partner is not the right match for you and that it would be best to walk away.
4. You are closing yourself off to close friends and family
Relationships require some effort, but the costs should not be so great that you’re finding yourself having to close yourself off from your loved ones because of your partner. It’s normal for you and your partner to have different social circles, but you should still be able to get along with each other’s friends and family. If you’re feeling pressured to choose between your partner and your loved ones, it’s a sign that something is wrong.
5. Your emotions are dominated by a feeling of resentment
If your relationship is causing you more negative emotions than positive ones, it’s time to take a step back and re-evaluate. You deserve to be in a relationship that fills you with ease, contentment, and peace. If you’re feeling angry, sad, hurt, scared, or guilty most of the time, it’s not healthy for you. Remaining in a prolonged state of anxiety and distress can damage your mental and physical health in the long term. The longer you stay in a rut, the harder it is to get out of it. It’s not worth it. You deserve to be happy, now and in the future. If your relationship is threatening this, do whatever it takes to change the situation. If you can’t fix it, it’s time to leave.
6. Your loved ones are warning you about red flags
Sure, the expression “Love is blind” holds true, but it shouldn’t make you lose yourself. If a loved one tells you they are worried about the direction your relationship is headed, listen to them. They may see things that you can’t because you’re too attached. Facing the truth is hard, but it’s important to ask yourself if you’re happy and fulfilled in your relationship. If you’re not, don’t be afraid to leave. Relationships shouldn’t make you feel bad about yourself. Use your experiences to learn and grow. Relationships are not the solution to life’s challenges, but they can be springboards to becoming a better version of yourself.
