Relationships can be hard enough without the input of friends and family. It’s all about boundaries. No matter how close you are to a friend or family member, the inner most details of your relationship should be off limits. Here’s a few ways to protect what’s yours.
As women, we love to gab. (Especially about our men) But it’s really important to keep your most intimate moments with your partner, private. Do not tell friends about something that could possibly embarrass your partner or peak a friend’s interest.
You’re in a heated disagreement and you’re two seconds away from calling your brother or dad, but it’s just not smart. Unless you are in clear and present danger, reacting out of emotion and bringing other people into your disagreement is not going to end well. When you make up, you will look for everyone else to go back to normal and it doesn’t work that way.
I know, it may sound corny, but the truth of the matter is, God won’t judge you. In a time where you may be uncertain in your relationship, pray about it. You definitely don’t have to worry about God telling anyone else your business.
Fighting in front of others is like an open invitation into your relationship or marriage. If it’s possible to avoid fighting in front of others, do so at all costs.
It’s easy at times to talk to friends or family about relationship issues because there is no pressure. But it can create distance when you don’t bring your gripes to your partner, first. Find the best way to communicate concerns to your partner, which may involve waiting for the right time.
No one knows your partner better than you. You know the ins and outs, the good and the bad. If all you ever do is complain to someone who doesn’t know them as well, you will negatively impact their view of your partner. Be very aware of whether you are portraying your partner in a negative light.
It may be too idealistic to think that you will never need another person’s advice or insight when it comes to relationships. In the event that you do, consider the source. It’s all about seeking wisdom because your relationship is valuable and should be protected.
It’s important to know what your partner is comfortable with you sharing and what they may not be comfortable with. Many times, men are a lot more sensitive about what you share about them to your closest friends and family. Make sure that you have the conversation and respect the agreement.
Sometimes friends and family can pry. They ask questions and it’s up to you to set the boundaries by being bold enough to say, “That’s private and something we don’t discuss.”
Stay positive by keeping negative people and comments at bay. “Honestly, I block people [on Twitter] all the time,” Sidibe explained. “I prefer my world to smell like strawberries and look like rainbows, and at least on Twitter I can block negative comments, fighting, and opinions about what I should be doing in my life. I am compulsive about keeping those dark clouds out of my life. Choose your tweets wisely.”
Many times we run to outside sources because we don’t trust our own feelings and emotions. We say “So am I right in this situation?” to a friend. Many times we are asking biased sources but if we took a moment alone to ourselves, we would find our answers and be able to resolve conflict more effectively.
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