"We need to find the courage to say NO to the things and people that are not serving us if we want to discover ourselves and live our lives with authenticity."

-Barbara De Angelis

First let's start by saying that, "No relationship is perfect." Most relationships have their normal ups and downs, highs and lows. These kinds of relationships can and will be worked out because both partners will put forth the effort and these relationships have a solid foundation.

But, if you find yourself in a relationship where you are the only one trying 90% of the time that isn't a relationship it is a dead end street.

If you are honest with yourself you know when you are in an unhealthy relationship. You may cry all of the time, talk but you are never heard, wish things would change but never do, feel like you are alone even though you are in a relationship and you just plain feel bad most of the time.

And, the real clincher is you are on the receiving end of disrespectful, dismissive behavior on a consistent and ongoing basis and nothing seems to change. No matter how hard you try, no matter how much you pray, scream, or beg it all falls on deaf ears.

If you find yourself in an unhealthy relationship and you've tried everything you can think of to make it work and it still hasn't, it's time to accept the reality of your relationship.

Being in denial will only keep you stuck and waste months or perhaps years of your life trying to make something work that never will.

Acceptance is the first step forward. Face the truth and the truth will set you free. No one wants to end a relationship when they love someone, but if it has already clearly ended and you are still holding onto it, why are you staying?

Unless you never want a chance at a mutually loving, respectful relationship, then by all means keep walking down Misery Lane. But, if you know you deserve more, then pick yourself up, dig down deep and find the courage to release yourself from this unhealthy prison.

No one deserves to be mistreated and have none of their needs or emotions validated, not even you!

There really is a whole world outside of this relationship. Give yourself a chance to have the kind of relationship that is worth fighting for. Let go of what isn't working. Release yourself from a one way relationship and take the steps toward a better future.

If you allow yourself the chance, there is something better in store for you. When one door closes another one will always open. But if you are locked in a dead end relationship you won't be able to reach that door.

There is nothing in your life right now that will keep you from being happy, but you. When you muster up the courage to take back you power and do what is right for your life, you will be surprised at how things will change for the best.

©2010 Susan Russo

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