Dating after abuse is hard and can be scary for many women. However, there are some women that have no problem jumping back in the saddle.
I believe there should be a time of healing and reflection after any relationship comes to an end. This is a time to take an honest look at yourself, your ex-partner, and the relationship. What mistakes did you make? What red flags did you miss or overlook? What boundaries were crossed or left unprotected?
Once you feel ready to move on and start that new chapter it is a good idea to approach the next relationship in a different way. The most important thing is to know the signs of an abusive relationship such as calling you out your name, embarrassing or humiliating you in public, always blaming you to just name a few.
Be smart and know exactly what you want before entering a relationship. I suggest discussing the following topics with your new partner before the relationship gets serious. Here are my suggestions for boundaries.
Communication Style: Be clear about how you prefer to communicate. Verbal abuse is not acceptable during any disagreement.
Personal Space: Explain your need for alone time, time to think, journal, and reenergize. Importance of respecting your
Define the Relationship: Be on the same page before moving forward. Are we a couple? or Are we, friends?
Intimacy: Discuss and agree on if or when physical intimacy will take place.
Religion: Explain your beliefs and the importance of your beliefs to be respected.
Most often I find that women get into relationships and have no idea what they really want. Also, they have not had a discussion with their partner about where they are headed. Then, months or years later they realize they are not on the same page.
Having boundaries helps keep you from wasting time in a dead-end relationship. Protecting your boundaries can help keep you safe.
Daylight
