🚨 BFs aren’t owed submission🚨

I remember a time when I thought being a 'good girlfriend' meant always putting my partner's desires first, no matter what. It was a subtle pressure, a feeling that I should just 'submit' to what he wanted, especially as our relationship grew longer. But reflecting on it now, I realize how detrimental that mindset was, particularly when my own needs weren't being met. It often starts subtly. Maybe in the early time of relationship, you're so eager to please and build a connection that you overlook small instances where your needs aren't being met. You might think, 'Oh, it's just a phase,' or 'Things will get better once we're more comfortable.' But if a partner isn't actively working to understand and fulfill your emotional, communicative, or even practical needs, then expecting 'submission' from you is a huge red flag. The image in that painting, with the strong message 'STOP! IF YOU'RE A GIRLFRIEND THAT MAN DON'T DESERVE SUBMISSION,' really resonated with me. It’s a powerful reminder that our worth isn't tied to how much we give in. True partnership means both people are invested in each other's well-being and happiness. If you're constantly feeling unheard, unsupported, or like your feelings are secondary, then how can anyone reasonably expect you to 'submit' your will or desires? One of the biggest lessons I learned is that the time of relationship doesn't automatically grant anyone the right to demand 'submission.' Whether you've been together for months or years, the foundation should always be mutual respect and effort. If you find your needs not being met, it's crucial to address it. This isn't about being argumentative; it's about advocating for yourself. Communication is key, but if repeated attempts to express your needs are ignored, or worse, met with demands for you to just 'go along with it,' that's a sign of an unhealthy dynamic. Think about what your needs not being met really means for you. Is it a lack of emotional support? Are your opinions constantly dismissed? Do you feel like you have no say in important decisions? These are fundamental aspects of a healthy partnership. A partner who truly values you will strive to meet you halfway, understand your perspective, and ensure you feel cherished and respected. If a man don't deserve submission from you, it's often because he's failing in these basic areas. So, what can you do if you're a girlfriend feeling this way? First, clearly identify what your needs not being met are. Write them down if you need to. Then, choose a calm moment to communicate these needs to your partner, focusing on 'I' statements. Explain how their actions (or inactions) make you feel. Observe their reaction. Are they dismissive, defensive, or genuinely willing to listen and make an effort? Remember, healthy relationships are built on equal footing, not on one person's unilateral 'submission.' You deserve a partnership where your voice is heard, your needs are valued, and your autonomy is respected, no matter the time of relationship.