There is a big difference between being in a relationship and losing yourself in it.
As a strong, self-respecting woman, there are certain things you should never do in a relationship.
As the founder of Love Connection, I’ve seen it all in the world of dating and relationships.
In this article, I’m going to share eight things that strong, self-respecting women never do in a relationship.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your love life and maintain your power and dignity, read on.
1) They Never Lose Their Identity
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen in relationships is when women start to lose their sense of self.
Strong, self-respecting women understand the importance of maintaining their individuality, even when they’re in a relationship. They understand that a relationship is about sharing your life with someone, not giving it up completely.
I’ve seen countless women who start changing their hobbies, interests, and even their personalities to fit their partners. It’s a disturbing trend that leads to an unhealthy balance in a relationship.
So keep doing what makes you happy, follow your passion, and never let anyone make you feel like you need to change to be loved. Because women who respect themselves know their worth at the end of the day and don’t compromise on it.
2) They Don’t Ignore Their Intuition
In my years of coaching relationships, I’ve heard so many women say, “I knew something was wrong, but I just ignored it.” Ladies, your intuition is a powerful tool, don’t ignore it.
Strong, self-respecting women pay attention to their feelings. If something doesn’t feel right in their relationship, they don’t suppress it; instead, they address it.
As Maya Angelou famously said, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” If your instincts are telling you that something isn’t right, listen to them.
I remember a time when I doubted my intuition in a relationship and ended up regretting it. Since then, I’ve learned to trust my intuition and it has never led me astray.
Remember that your intuition is your inner compass. Listen to it!
3) They Don’t Become Codependent
Being in a relationship doesn’t mean you have to depend on your partner for everything. That’s a dangerous path to take, and it leads to codependency.
Strong, self-respecting women maintain their independence, even when they’re in a relationship. They know that it’s healthy to have a life outside of their relationship and that they don’t need their partner to fulfill every aspect of their life.
I’ve seen many women fall into the codependency trap, and let me tell you, it’s not easy to break free once you’re in it. I write about this in my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. It’s a guide for anyone who finds themselves stuck in a vicious cycle of codependency and wants to reclaim their independence.
I’ve been in a codependent relationship myself and it took me years to rebuild my self-esteem and independence. I don’t want any woman to go through that.
You are an independent woman who can take care of yourself. Never forget that!
4) They Don’t Avoid Conflict
Here’s something that might surprise you: Strong women who respect themselves don’t avoid conflict in a relationship.
Many people assume that avoiding disagreements and disagreements is the key to a successful relationship. But that’s not always the case.
Avoiding conflict often leads to unresolved issues and bottled-up emotions, which can be harmful in the long run. A healthy relationship involves open and honest communication, even when it’s uncomfortable.
In my experience, I’ve found that confronting conflict head-on and discussing disagreements honestly can strengthen a relationship. It allows both partners to better understand each other and find solutions together.
Ladies, don’t be afraid of conflict. Embrace it as an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding in your relationship. Keep in mind that it’s not about winning an argument, it’s about understanding your partner and finding common ground.
5) They Don’t Settle for Less
I can’t stress this enough: Strong, self-respecting women never settle for less than they deserve.
In my younger years, I found myself in relationships where I wasn’t valued or respected the way I should have been. It was a hard lesson to learn, but it taught me the importance of knowing your worth.
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If you’re in a relationship where you constantly feel unappreciated or undervalued, it’s time to reevaluate. A strong woman knows her worth and refuses to settle for anything less. She understands that she deserves a partner who treats her with respect, values her opinion, and loves her unconditionally.
Trust me: never settle for less than you deserve. You deserve so much more, and the right person will see that.
6) They Don’t Tolerate Disrespect
Here’s the honest, raw truth: Strong, self-respecting women don’t tolerate disrespect. Not from anyone, ever.
Disrespect can take many forms in a relationship—from verbal abuse and belittlement to neglect and betrayal. Here’s what I’ve learned: If you let disrespect get the better of you once, it opens the door for it to happen again.
I’ve been there, in a relationship where my boundaries were violated and my feelings were ignored. It’s a dark place, and no woman should have to endure that.
Always know that you deserve to be treated with kindness, love, and respect. Don’t accept anything less. If someone doesn’t respect you—even if they say they love you—that’s not okay. Stand up for yourself and demand the respect you deserve.
7) They Don’t Ignore Their Own Needs
It’s easy to get so wrapped up in a relationship that you forget about your own needs. But strong, self-respecting women know that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
I remember a time when I was putting my partner’s needs above my own, to the point where I forgot to take care of myself. It was a wake-up call when I realized I was neglecting my well-being.
As the great Audre Lorde once said, “Taking care of myself is not self-gratification, it is self-preservation, and it is an act of political warfare.”
Don’t forget to prioritize yourself. Make sure your needs are met—physical, emotional, and mental. A relationship should enhance your life, not drain you. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first!
8) They’re Not Afraid of Being Alone
Let’s be real here: strong, self-respecting women aren’t afraid of being alone.
There’s a misconception that being single is synonymous with being lonely. But the truth is, being in a bad relationship can make you feel lonelier than being single.
In my journey, I’ve learned that it’s better to be alone than to be with someone who makes you feel lonely. Being single allows you to discover who you are, what you want, and what you deserve.
It’s better to be single and happy than to be in a relationship where you’re not respected or appreciated. Remember, your worth isn’t determined by your relationship status. You are enough, just the way you are.
If you find yourself stuck in a vicious cycle of codependency or need guidance on maintaining your independence in a relationship, my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship may be the resource you need.
Remember, ladies, you are strong, you are good, and you deserve nothing less. Never settle for less.
