Seven things you should never do for a man who hasn’t married you

In relationships, it’s easy for a woman to get caught up in the excitement and emotion of loving a man. We often find ourselves willing to make sacrifices and compromises for the sake of love and commitment.

However, it’s essential to maintain your personal boundaries and protect your self-worth, especially when marriage is not yet on the horizon.

As a woman, taking certain actions too soon can undermine your worth and leave you with regret if the relationship doesn’t progress as expected. It’s crucial to prioritize your own needs, goals, and aspirations while navigating a relationship.

Without further ado, here are things you should avoid doing for a man who hasn’t put a ring on it:

• Changing your identity

Avoid making drastic physical or personal changes just to please or prove love to a man.

The decision to alter your core identity like religion, personal values, and appearance should be personal, not external pressure. Doing it for a man can lead to resentment especially if the relationship fails.

Authenticity is crucial to building a healthy relationship. A man who loves you will accept you just as you are.

• Cutting off loved ones

A man who discourages you from maintaining a relationship with your family and friends is a walking red flag, simple and short.

So never allow any man to persuade you to cut ties with them because they are your support system that will be needed for your emotional well-being.

A healthy relationship does not isolate you; instead, it enhances your life by helping you build impactful relationships.

Keep those relationships intact, you will need their love, support and guidance through life’s challenges.

• Sacrificing your career, ambition, or passion

Never put your dreams on hold for anyone, including a man who hasn’t committed to building a future with you. A supportive partner will cheer you on not discourage you.

• Tolerating disrespect or abuse

Never compromise on your self-worth and self-respect regardless of your love for him.

Maltreatment, abuse of any kind and disrespect should not be excused in a relationship, and never think marriage will change these behaviours.

Prioritise your physical, mental and emotional well-being.

• Living with him as a ‘wife’

Avoid playing the role of a wife by cooking, cleaning and managing the affairs of his house if he is not committed.

Cohabitating might seem like a good idea but it often makes it difficult to set boundaries.

Also, you have no business taking up the responsibilities of a wife at his parents’ house or for his friends.

Setting boundaries is not about being rude, it’s about maintaining your self-respect and ensuring you are not taken for granted.

• Taking loans for him

Protect your finances by steering clear of actions like borrowing money on his behalf.

In a relationship without long-term commitment, taking on debt for him could leave you shouldering the financial burden alone if things go wrong.

Let him handle his own financial responsibilities while offering other forms of emotional or moral support.

Your finances are personal — guard them wisely.

• Having children for him

Never think of “tying down a man” with pregnancy, it is a very risky decision to take.

Giving birth is a huge responsibility that should not be shouldered by just one person. So without marriage, you risk being left to raise a child alone if the relationship falters.

Ensure you both agree on your future before taking this life-changing step.

Love is a beautiful journey, but make sure to guard your heart, finances, and future while at it.

Also, ensure the commitment, efforts, respect, and sacrifices are mutual.