Relationships fail. It’s a fact of life. We’ve all had “the talk” with someone, and a few of the not-so-lucky ones have received “the text”, “status update”, or another equally trifling way he chose to end the relationship. No matter who is at fault, someone wanted out and the relationship has failed. F-a-i-l-e-d. Failure. Ugh! The word is so negative. But guess what, you have the opportunity to get something positive from all the hurt, lies, & tears. Are you willing to see the rainbow after the storm? It does get better. Life goes on. If you can just embrace a few of the following lessons dare I say you’ll be a better woman for Mr. Right, and be able to kick Mr. Wrong to the curb quicker! So grab a pen & a pad and take some notes!
1. Love yourself more.
If you start and end every relationship with this principle, you’ll always know how to make the best decision. How, you may ask? Well, if you love, value, and cherish yourself more than you do any man, you’ll demand the same from him. He, and those after him, will hold you in the light you hold yourself in. Make him rise to the occasion!
2. Don’t believe “Love conquers all”. Lies they told!
Did I just say that? Yeah I did. Love is an action word that encompasses friendship, trust, support, accountability … need I go on? Believe his actions over his words. He’s gotta do more than whisper sweet nothings in your ear.
3. Trust your gut.
It’s really that simple. Don’t over think it or try to justify it. Trust – your – gut!
4. Be his #1 fan, but not his groupie.
Adore him and seek to meet his every need. However, settle for nothing less than the same from him.
5. BUT…Don’t turn into his puppet.
It’s easy to lose your sense of self because you want to accommodate his every wish. Be the “you” that attracted him! The vibrant woman that had an opinion about things, friends outside of his circle, and could go an evening or (gasp!) an entire day doing your own thang’ and not stalking his social media wondering what he’s up to. A real man wants a partner, not a puppet!
6. Say it with me – Compromise!
A relationship is a partnership. You must be ready to compromise and choose your battles wisely. But FIRST, have a clear understanding on the non-negotiables of what you must have to feel loved, valued, and respected as a woman. Outside of that list, compromise a bit!
7. Keep house at home.
Don’t air his dirty laundry or the arguments between the two of you. You’ll forgive his harsh words/deeds faster than your momma or bestie ever will. If it gets back to him you’ll also fracture the bond of trust and communication necessary to sustain any relationship. So keep everyone happy and keep ‘em out ya business!
8. Be a BAUCE, not a B*tch.
When the relationship is deteriorating, leave with love. You were sugary-sweet before him but he’s now turned you into a bitter-scornful woman with baggage for the next guy. Trust boo, the constant scowl and rolled-eyes you’re currently rockin’ really aint a good look! Go back to being the easy, breezy, beautiful woman that initially attracted him, so that it will catch the eye of the next guy.
9. Be the mate that you want.
What do you want in a man? Success? Stability? Maturity? Fit body? We’ve all got our “must haves”, but how much of that can you check off for yourself? If you don’t yet embody most of the qualities you seek in him, work on yourself first. It’s a win for you and him!
10. Don’t beat yourself up.
Personally, I’ve made some mind-boggling decisions for prior boyfriends. These decisions affect me to this day – years after a break-up! And yet I’m not beating myself up over them. In fact, I refuse to do so. Why? Because I remind myself that although I’m still facing the consequences of those decisions I am now a brighter, better, and wiser woman! I got there, and you can too, by learning your lessons!
