DO YOU REALLY LOVE HIM?

DO YOU REALLY LOVE HIM?

How many of you have ever asked yourself that question?  Can you list the reasons why you love him?

In my opinion, and everyone has one, we as women stay in relationships that do not make us happy for a variety of reasons. Some of the reasons are practical while others are purely emotional. Let’s take some time and explore some of the reasons we stay in unhappy relationships.

The practical reasons for staying in a bad relationship can be compelling. Finances lead the list. If a woman is dependent financially, it can be overwhelming to imagine ending the situation. This fear often leads to envisioning worst-case scenarios. For instance, not being able to support yourself  and/or the fear of being alone.

Another practical concern is children. What is best for the children? How will the children handle the breakup? Will I be able to support them?  Real problems – real concerns.

If you are in this type of a situation, the best course of action is to understand that you have options. Meaning you don’t have to pack your bags and leave today unless yourself or your children are being abused. Then you need to take immediate action; otherwise, you should think about making plans for the future such as going back to school, getting a job, saving money. Contact an attorney and get some free legal advice. Arm yourself with knowledge so that you feel prepared and less vulnerable.

Ending a bad relationship is never easy. Seek out a support system. Confide your fears and concerns to someone who understands you. Try not to get caught up in counting the years spent with this person. This thinking will only make you feel worse. For example, I wasted the last 5 years of my life. Truthfully, I doubt that you did. I’m sure that you accomplished many things during that period. But, ask yourself a bigger question. If you believe that you wasted so much of your life on this relationship, are you willing to waste more?

Next week we will touch on some of the emotional reasons women don’t walk away from their partners whether single or married. We will focus on what keeps us in these relationships even though we feel empty.

NEXT WEEK: I LOVE HIM BUT…!

General by Carol