I’m feeling incredibly lost and could really use some advice. Here’s my situation:
I (30F) have been in a relationship with my partner (28M) for a year now, after moving from Melbourne to Sydney to be closer to him. This was a huge step for me, but our relationship hasn’t progressed as I hoped. Despite my efforts, we still don’t live together and he keeps coming up with excuses.
Here are some of the issues I’m facing:
He defends other girls he considers friends over my feelings, and doesn’t seem to care about what I want or what a healthy relationship requires. Whenever I try to communicate, it turns into a huge argument. He’s divorced and younger than me, and clearly traumatized from his past relationship. I require a lot of reassurance due to my own childhood issues and lack of a supportive family. Despite understanding my needs, he’s mean about what I ask for and tells me I don’t deserve love. I feel like I’m the only one making sacrifices. I moved cities for him, but he doesn’t do anything for me. We hang out, watch movies, go to the gym, and go out, but I often pay for everything and organize our activities. Whenever I try to break up, he bombards me with calls and false promises until I relent. It’s an exhausting cycle and I end up believing him every time, only to be disappointed again. I’ve recently lost my job, which has made everything even more overwhelming. I feel trapped in a relationship that doesn’t fulfill me, and I don’t know how to find the strength to leave for good.
I’m really tired and emotionally drained. I don’t know how to move forward and take care of myself. Any advice on how to navigate this situation and finally prioritize my own well-being would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for reading.