Understanding our interactions with others is crucial for building healthy relationships. The manner in which we allow others to treat us influences our connections, making self-reflection an important tool for our well-being.

"Everyone treats you the way you allow them to."

This saying shows the importance of creating boundaries. By sharing what is acceptable, we guide others in treating us with respect. However, changing the dynamics of a relationship requires mutual understanding and effort.

"As long as the other person does not realise that their actions are hurtful or humiliating, there will be no change."

Acknowledging unhelpfull behaviours is the first step. For relationships to flourish, both parties must be willing to adapt and recognise the issues at hand. Without this mutual understanding, one-sided efforts often lead to frustration and stagnation.

Until the other person takes notice of the fact that they also need to change, there is nothing you can do except set boundaries and say NO, making them aware that they cannot simply act as they please. This is not about controlling others; in a way, it safeguards our well-being and is an act of kindness towards ourselves.

In scenarios like this, either the works of the relationship shift as the other person is compelled to reflect and take responsibility for their actions, or if self-reflection is entirely absent, distance becomes necessary. Sometimes, creating space is essential when attempts to uphold mutual respect prove unsuccessful.

The most significant aspect of self-awareness is self-reflection, which helps us comprehend the consequences of our thoughts, beliefs, behaviours, and actions, as well as recognise that others do not need to tolerate anything.

"Those who lack self-reflection will not see, if their actions are wrong, and as long as this awareness is missing, the relationship cannot change."

A solid foundation for a healthy relationship is being aware of what we want or like and what we permit others to bring into this special space.

The sooner we realise this, the less disappointments we inflict on ourselves. This can minimise emotional harm and encourage healing.

Checking in from time to time with our behaviour towards others and how we allow others to treat us can really help with personal growth. And this important journey of understanding - starts with introspection and honesty with ourselves, and that can be hard. Yet, if you can take that first step, you might just start walking ... before you know it, into a happier life.