It’s Not Even That Deep Bae … Is It?

Love is such a beautiful thing, especially when it is handled properly. It becomes even more incredible when it is manifested in the form of two people coming together romantically and, in time, becoming one in marriage. So, it may seem a bit weird to talk about “boundaries” but they are extremely important in a relationship! They help ensure the bond you two share is protected. Some would argue that nothing should be off-limits in a relationship but there are nuances to this as sometimes this can be misused and abused. There are certain boundaries that are needed to keep the love thriving and not dying a slow death. And trust me, you don't want to learn that by experience.

Family Always Knows What’s Right … Right?

The family bond is something that is not easily broken. Our families are our real Day 1s and have been with us since the beginning. I know they may get on your nerves and stress you at times, but the fact that they are your family will never change. However, just because they are your family doesn’t mean their input in different areas of your life is always for your benefit, and it doesn’t mean you are obligated to take it. They may have good intentions but that doesn’t always mean they are right. I mean, to be honest, there are some things in your personal life your family doesn’t need to know (e.g., when you have a disagreement with your partner). “But, how do I know when it’s okay and when it’s not?” Well, that’s where I come in!

Thriving With Your Spec

You finally found your spec and you both decided to take the next step to establish an actual relationship. That is great news! Although it may feel a bit different at times now that you are fully committed to this person, love is a beautiful thing and I’m sure it will bring you lots of happiness and enjoyment. Getting here may not have been easy, but it will definitely be worthwhile. For that to happen, you have to make sure the relationship lasts. Don’t make the mistake of applying pressure to show someone you want a future with them, only to stop putting in as much effort once you are actually with them. Relationships take intentional effort to not only maintain them but help them grow. So, what does that look like?

Courting Your Spec

So, you got someone you’re really interested in, and they have a lot of qualities that you believe will help a relationship to not only grow, but flourish. I presume this is someone you’ve been taking the time to talk to God about as well. If you have been taking the right steps to move intentionally in your dating journey, then I’m sure the next thing you’re thinking about is how to move towards an actual relationship. I want to note that there isn’t necessarily a timeframe between talking with someone initially and when a relationship should start; the key is how your time together is spent. At a certain point though, you will have to take the bold step to officially declare this person as your boyfriend or girlfriend.

Finding Your Spec

You don’t just jump into a great relationship that can withstand all the things life has to throw at it; you have to start by building a firm foundation for it to stand on. That foundation is built by picking a quality person that won’t break you down but will build you up. People convince themselves they’ll never find someone, but the real problem is usually the type of people they allow into their lives. You can’t choose to date a bum—and I mean both men and women—and expect everything to work itself out. You have to be scrupulous in who you are choosing to date (and by scrupulous, I don’t mean looking for the perfect person—which is what a lot of people do). So, how do you start building that firm foundation? Get to know the person.

Dang, Can I Catch a Break?

It seems like these days, everyone is dealing with one situation or the other. People have lost loved ones, jobs, friends, relationships, and their minds, trying to manage it all. It is extremely difficult to see any good in a situation when things seem dire; even more so when it seems to be one challenge after another. It’s also not an easy task to support and console those in your life that are going through these circumstances when you can’t imagine what it’s like to be in their shoes. But take heart - I’m here to reassure you that despite your situation, all hope is not lost.

Dating Nowadays: Do You Want to Secure Future Bae? (Part 2)

And the finale has finally arrived! Let’s close out the series, shall we?

Stop Carrying Old Baggage

How can you expect to build something solid with someone on a shaky foundation? You’re mixing your old baggage and unresolved past hurt into this bond you’re developing, and it’s going to end in the connection falling apart. This new individual you are looking to potentially create a future with is not the cause of your past heartbreak, nor should they be held accountable for it. That means that if you want things to go smoothly and you want what you two build to last, you need to get yourself right. That means you need to check yourself first and ensure you have a clean slate before opening yourself up to someone else.