6 things a strong woman will never do for a man, according to a relationship expert

Navigating relationships can be tricky, especially when it comes to defining boundaries. As a strong woman, you need to know what you can and cannot do for a man.

As Tina Fey, founder of the Love Connection blog and a relationship expert, I’ve seen many women lose themselves in relationships. But I firmly believe a strong woman will never compromise her values for a man.

In this article, we’ll explore 6 things that, according to my professional experience, a strong woman will never do for a man. These tips aim to empower women by setting clear boundaries in their relationships.

Let’s dive into these relationship truths that every strong woman should keep in mind.

1) Overlook her own needs

One of the pitfalls many women fall into in relationships is neglecting their own needs for the sake of their partner.

As a strong woman, it’s essential to recognize that your needs are just as important as those of your man. This includes your emotional, physical, and mental health, as well as your personal and professional goals.

Overlooking your own needs can lead to resentment, frustration, and ultimately, a breakdown in the relationship. It’s crucial to maintain a balance where both partners’ needs are being met.

Strong women understand this balance and never forsake their own well-being for the sake of a relationship. They know that healthy relationships are about mutual support and respect.

2) Sacrifice her independence

I’ve always admired women who carry a strong sense of self and independence. As a relationship expert, I can tell you that this is one of the most attractive qualities a woman can possess.

A strong woman knows that she doesn’t need a man to complete her. She values her independence and will never let a man control her life or decisions. This doesn’t mean she can’t be in a loving relationship, but she understands the importance of maintaining her individuality even within a partnership.

In the wise words of renowned poet Maya Angelou, “I do not trust people who don’t love themselves and yet tell me, ‘I love you.’ There is an African saying which is: Be careful when a naked person offers you a shirt.”

A strong woman will always remember this, holding onto her independence, and never allowing herself to be fully defined by her relationship with a man.

3) Stay in an unhealthy relationship

As someone who’s seen countless relationships, both healthy and unhealthy, I can tell you this: a strong woman will never endure an unhealthy relationship for the sake of being with a man.

I’ve seen too many women suffer in toxic relationships, thinking that they have no other choice or that they can change their partner. But a strong woman knows her worth and understands that she deserves to be treated with love and respect.

In fact, this is a topic I cover extensively in my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. In it, I provide strategies and advice on how to recognize and break free from unhealthy relationships.

A strong woman recognizes the signs of an unhealthy relationship and isn’t afraid to walk away when necessary. She knows there’s more to life than being stuck in a toxic relationship and she’s not afraid to embrace it.

4) Always say “yes”

This might come as a surprise to some, but saying “no” is a powerful tool in maintaining a healthy relationship.

Strong women understand that always agreeing or saying “yes” to everything isn’t a sign of a healthy relationship. Rather, it often indicates a lack of personal boundaries and respect for one’s own needs.

Contrary to what many believe, saying “no” doesn’t mean you’re being difficult or unloving. It simply means you are respecting your own limits and ensuring that the relationship remains balanced and respectful.

A strong woman knows the power of her “no” and isn’t afraid to use it when necessary. She understands that a relationship built on mutual respect will always value her voice and her choices.

5) Lose her identity

As Tina Fey, I’ve always believed in the importance of maintaining my identity, irrespective of the relationships I’m in. And as a relationship expert, I’ve observed countless strong women who’ve taught me the same lesson time and again.

A strong woman knows that she is more than just a partner in a relationship. She has her own dreams, aspirations, and passions that define who she is. And she will never let a man overshadow her identity or make her forget her own self.

She understands that a healthy relationship allows both partners to grow individually as well as together. It thrives on mutual respect for each other’s individuality and does not demand one to lose themselves for the sake of love.

A strong woman will always remain true to herself, cherishing her uniqueness and never letting a man dictate her identity.

6) Settle for less

Let’s get real here. A strong woman knows her worth and she refuses to settle for anything less than she deserves.

Whether it’s about respect, love, or commitment, she won’t compromise on her standards. She knows that being alone is far better than being with the wrong man who doesn’t value her.

She won’t accept half-hearted love or disrespectful behavior. She won’t tolerate lies or deceit. She believes in full respect, genuine love, and unwavering commitment.

A strong woman understands that settling for less can lead to a lifetime of regret and dissatisfaction. So she bravely holds out for what she truly deserves, even if it means waiting a little longer.

Being raw and honest with oneself about what one deserves in a relationship is a trait of a strong woman. She will never settle for less.

7) Lose sight of her dreams

As Tina Fey, I’ve always been a dreamer. And no man or relationship has ever deterred me from pursuing my dreams. I’ve observed the same tenacity in many strong women I’ve met throughout my career as a relationship expert.

A strong woman won’t let a man, or a relationship, stand in the way of her aspirations. She understands that her dreams are valid and important.

In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” A strong woman knows this truth and lives by it.

She continues to strive towards her goals, and expects her partner to support and respect her journey. She knows that a relationship should not be a barrier but a support system in achieving her dreams.

A strong woman will always hold onto her dreams and never let a man make her lose sight of them.

8) Ignore red flags

This is as raw and honest as it gets. A strong woman doesn’t turn a blind eye to red flags in a relationship.

She understands that ignoring early warning signs can lead to heartache and disappointment down the line. Whether it’s consistent disrespect, controlling behavior, or unexplained absences, a strong woman pays attention to these signs and takes them seriously.

She knows that love isn’t about making excuses for someone’s harmful behavior or convincing herself that things will change when all evidence points to the contrary.

A strong woman acknowledges red flags when she sees them, and has the courage to address them or walk away if necessary. She knows that her happiness and peace of mind are worth more than a problematic relationship.

Conclusion

Being a strong woman in a relationship isn’t about being tough or unyielding. It’s about knowing your worth, setting boundaries, and never compromising on the things that matter most to you.

These eight points aren’t just about what a strong woman will not do for a man. They’re guidelines for any woman striving to maintain her identity, self-respect, and independence in a relationship.

Remember, it’s essential to be in a relationship where you’re valued and respected for who you are. If you need more guidance on this topic, my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship can provide you with further insight.

Stay strong, ladies. Your strength and self-worth should never be compromised for any man or relationship.