Read the following statements and reflect on whether they are True or False.
In statements you find True, consider the possible reasons for the behavior (there are possibilities following each statement). They are only suggestions, if you are aware of other reasons, make note.
Them:
I pick partners who cheat on me. (Do I self-sabotage by ignoring red flags?) *
I pick partners who are emotionally unavailable. (Perhaps like one of my parents?) *
I pick partners who are abusive to me. (Have I seen or experienced abuse?) *
I pick partners who invade my boundaries. (Maybe in childhood there was little space for me?) *
Me:
In relationship, it’s hard for me to say no and often feel taken advantage of. (Was I emotionally steamrolled by anyone?) *
In relationship, I tend to repeatedly forgive bad behavior, despite it continuing. (Did I learn somehow that I deserve this?) *
In relationship, I often spend a lot of energy trying to get my partner to pay attention to me. (Was I not attended to as a child?) *
In relationship, I’ve heard from partners that I’m emotionally unavailable. (Did I learn that expressing love isn’t safe?) *
Note in your journal what is relevant to you.