Are you being Love-bombed?
Learn Three Warning Signs and What to Do About It!
Photo by Mayur Gala on Unsplash
Are you caught up in the whirlwind of a new relationship that feels almost too good to be true?
Does your new boo text you the minute they wake up telling you how much they miss you? Are you flooded with flowers, dinner invitations or text messages? Do you get butterflies when they call because they “get you” and adore the person you truly are?
Hang on, before you get all twitter pated about this new relationship - this could be a gigantic red flag staring you in the face.
Love-bombing is a manipulative technique used by narcissistic individuals to lower your defenses and gain control over you. This is the first phase in the Narcissistic Abuse Cycle and can be confusing as hell.
Origins of Love-Bombing
Love-bombing, a term originating from the 1970s Unification Church, is now a sly tactic in romantic relationships and friendships. It's the emotional rollercoaster where one person showers the other with gifts, compliments, and undivided attention, all in the name of gaining control.
Here are three warning signs to watch out for:
1. Clinginess:
Is your partner clingier than duct tape? If your partner is constantly glued to you, it might be a red flag. Remember, a healthy relationship involves two independent individuals. If your partner wants to monopolize your calendar and begins to give you grief about spending time with friends or family - run, this is definitely not going in a healthy direction.
WHAT TO DO: Encourage your partner to get out and have fun with their friends and family while asserting some independence and need for space.
2. Pleases You Too Much:
If your partner aims to be the eternal people-pleaser by always letting you pick the movie or where to go for dinner without offering their own opinion, this could be a red flag. In a balanced relationship, both partners express their needs. If your partner constantly caters to your desires without revealing their own, they might be attempting to take the reins.
WHAT TO DO: Counteract this by actively seeking their input and showing that a relationship is a two-way street.
3. Obsessed with Being Happy:
If your partner is on a mission to keep you smiling 24/7 and won’t make room for hard conversations, this could be a red flag. While making each other happy is crucial, perpetual bliss might be a bit much.
WHAT TO DO: Healthy relationships embrace conflicts as part of growth. Express your feelings openly and honestly, if you are dismissed or disregarded, this could mean that this person isn’t open for authentic connection.
How to Defend Yourself:
1. Establish Clear Boundaries:
Communication is key. Clearly communicate your needs, and if your partner consistently disregards them, it might be time for a relationship evaluation.
2. Rally your support squad:
Friends and family are the superheroes you need. Seek their counsel, vent your concerns, and devise a strategy to protect your heart.
3. Consider professional help.
Therapy isn't just for the movies. Seek professional assistance to navigate the complexities, gain self-awareness, and ensure your mental well-being.
Love-bombing might be a sly emotional game, but with awareness and action, you can defend your heart. So, gear up, set boundaries, and face love-bombing head-on – your heart will thank you.
If you're stuck in a toxic tango and would like support to break free, set up a free strategy session. Life's too short for toxic relationships, and let's face it, you're not auditioning for a reality show. Take care of yourself, you deserve better!
Hi! I’m Evelyn, I’m here to help you heal from narcissistic relationships, break the cycle of codependency and unleash your inner bad-ass. If you are ready to heal and transform your life - let’s chat!
The power to heal lies within you, let’s unleash it together:)