Power plays in relationships can be mentally very damaging and exhausting and it is known to have led to feelings of frustration, hurt, and betrayal.
However, there are ways to protect yourself from being manipulated or controlled by your partner.
Here are seven smart ways to protect yourself from power play in a relationship
1. Identify the signs
The first step is to recognize the signs. These could be manipulation, gaslighting, and other forms of emotional abuse. Be aware of the tactics that your partner uses to control you.
2. Set boundaries
Setting clear boundaries with your partner is very important for your own mental well-being as well as for the sanity of your relationship. Be specific about what you will and will not tolerate, and communicate your boundaries clearly.
3. Assertive communication
Effective communication is crucial for protecting yourself from power plays. It involves expressing your needs and wants clearly, while also being respectful of your partner’s feelings.
4. Develop support system
Having a strong support system outside of your relationship can help you protect yourself from power plays. This can include friends, family members, or a therapist. But make sure you do so with people you can trust and not someone who can create misunderstandings. It is best to test them before confiding.
5. Grounded values
Knowing your own values and beliefs can help you protect yourself from being manipulated or controlled by your partner. Stay grounded in your own sense of self and what is important to you.
6. Self-care
Taking care of yourself is essential to protecting yourself. This can include practicing mindfulness, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and taking care of your physical and emotional health.
7. Be willing to walk away
If your partner continues to engage in power plays despite your efforts to protect yourself, be willing to walk away from the relationship. Remember that your safety and well-being should always come first.
