For a number of reasons, it can be difficult to leave a toxic relationship. Entering into a new relationship after a toxic one can be difficult, too. Issues of trust and intimacy may be barriers to you finding a new partner, but there are a couple of measures you can take to make sure your future relationships are happy and healthy.
Be Honest and Transparent
You do not have to tell someone all the intimate details of your life, especially your romantic life, on a first date. In fact, in most cases, it is better that you don't.
If after going on a couple casual dates with this partner you feel the potential for a long-term future together, consider the appropriate time and place to open up about specific details from previous relationships that might affect your new relationship.
For example, if you have gone through a divorce or if you have a custody battle for your children, you should be upfront about the facts. These are factors that can heavily influence relationships, so bringing them up sooner rather than later is important. Much like telling a potential partner about your education level and your career, it is important for them to have a basic understanding of the big aspects of your personal life.
Any potential partner or future relationship should also be willing to share the same level of transparency with you. If there are children in the picture, you will both eventually need to introduce your partners to your kids if it becomes a long-term relationship.
Be Open to New Possibilities
A level of caution is normal, even expected, when entering a new relationship. You do not have to share every aspect of your personal life on the first date, but you will need to be open to sharing more and more of your life as time goes on. It is understandable to be closed off in the beginning. However, if you find yourself unable to open up to someone else, or you struggle to enjoy being in the company of a potential new partner, it might be a little soon to date or they might not be the right person for you.
The most important thing to remember is to trust your gut. You know how it feels to be in a toxic relationship and you know some of the early warning signs. If something feels off, trust that instinct and back away. But if you find yourself happy and enjoying the company of a new partner, trust that instinct, too.
Need more dating advice? Check out other articles in our relationship section.
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