How to Feel Empowered In Your Relationships

Written by Julie Weinstein

Plain and simple, relationships take work. Specifically with romantic relationships, work must be done to ensure the needs and and desires are met for each partner.

When we’re young, we don’t necessarily learn how to be a good partner. I mean, yes, of course, we learn the basics of how to interact, about politeness, and so on, but you pretty much learn as you go.

Oftentimes in relationships, it requires looking inward to discover what you need, want, and desire, and then how to effectively communicate that to your partner. Self reflection is so important not just for your own self growth, but for your relationships, too. In fact, knowing yourself is really one of the keys to a successful relationship.

And when it comes to knowing yourself (the good, the bad, and the ugly), the more you know, the more empowered you’ll feel and live.

So, let’s talk about how one can feel empowered in relationships…

5 Ways to Feel Empowered in Relationships

1. Trust yourself

Oh, I could talk hours about this one. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of trusting yourself. I’ll admit it. I’m 32 and only more recently can I say I really started to trust myself and listen to my gut and trust that it won’t steer me wrong. And, I get it, it can be really hard to 1) make tough decisions and 2) trust that it’s the right decision that you make. I 100% get it, and I empathize with you.

However, as we grow up, the decisions only get bigger and more serious, and it’s so important to take the time to listen to yourself, listen to what you need, listen to what feels right, and above all, trust it and trust yourself. The more you trust yourself, the more empowered you’ll feel in your relationships because you’ll be living in the most authentic way possible.

2. Own your decisions

Once you trust yourself, it’s time to own the decisions you make. And I mean own them. Don’t feel sorry about them, don’t question them, and don’t feel guilty about the decision you made and standing up for yourself and owning the decision and everything that comes with it. You might find out the decision didn’t end up being the best possible decision for one reason or another, but that’s okay. You’ll learn and you’ll move on and you’ll handle the situation that then presents itself. But the bottom line is you have to own the decision you make and if you’re trusting yourself that shouldn’t be too hard to do.

3. Speak up

As much as we might wish it were the case, our partners are not mind readers. We might think they know what we’re thinking or wanting or needing, but they really might not have any clue.

Speaking up is paramount for a solid relationship. If you need something, say it. If something upsets you, verbalize it. If you’re confused, ask for clarification. Communication is everything, so be sure to speak up when necessary.

4. Learn to say no

This might be a harder one because it’s not always the easiest to say no to someone we love and care about. However, sometimes that no is what’s needed. Being honest is something we could all do more of. Of course it’s a lot easier to simply “keep the peace” and nod your head and avoid the potential conflict, but that, my friends, is living inauthentically, and where’s the fulfillment in that?

Being honest is different from being rude. Being honest is showing you respect yourself, being honest is mature, and being honest sometimes means saying no.

5. Take care of yourself

Above all, you have to take care of yourself first. Put your oxygen mask on before helping others applies here, too, because if you’re not the best version of yourself possible, how can your relationship be the best possible relationship?

Put yourself first, and give your body, mind, and soul exactly what it needs when it needs it. You’re not being selfish. You’re taking care of yourself so you can then take care of and be there for and with others.

Benefits of Feeling Empowered in Your Relationships

At the end of the day, we all want to be happy – in life and in love. Empowering yourself is essential to that. It will lead to more honesty, more communication, and a better understanding of one another and the relationship as a whole. The benefits are numerous.

Your Thoughts

What are your thoughts on empowerment in relationships? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

Have a great day!