❌Trapped No More: Breaking the Bond with an Abusive (ex)Partner

Boundaries, Healing, and the Path to Freedom

One in three women experience abuse in their relationships. One in five women have endured a relationship with a narcissistic partner. These numbers are more than statistics—they’re a reflection of the struggles many women face daily.

Yesterday, as I sat across from a client, her story echoed the heartbreak I hear all too often: trapped in an emotionally abusive marriage, haunted by a past that refuses to let go, and convinced that her situation is hopeless.

She said what so many women have said before:

• “He tells me I’m crazy and will make sure the courts believe it if I leave.”
• “He took my shoes and the vacuum to work so I couldn’t clean or leave.”
• “He’ll take my car if I try to go.”

The commonality of these stories is infuriating. The injustice of it makes my head pound.

How did we get here? Why is this such a pervasive issue?

Breaking the Chains: The Hard Truth

I know these stories not just from my clients but from my own life. I’ve been there. I escaped an abusive relationship, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But even after leaving, I realized something unsettling: the chains of abuse don’t always break when you walk away.

For years, I carried emotional scars—like a lingering “puppy dog” shadowing my steps. These were remnants of an old partner’s control, his words, and his manipulation.

And here’s the hard truth: I hadn’t fully set the boundaries necessary to reclaim my life.

I teach women how to heal and grow, but I realized I wasn’t fully practicing what I preach. I wasn’t holding to the boundaries that are crucial for true freedom.

Why Boundaries Are Essential

Boundaries are more than a buzzword—they’re a lifeline. They are the framework that helps you reclaim your sense of self and protect your peace. Without them, it’s too easy to slip into “keeping the peace,” which is entirely different from living in peace.

Peace vs. Keeping the Peace

When we “keep the peace,” we sacrifice our happiness, our sense of self, and sometimes our sanity to avoid conflict. It’s a passive surrender to someone else’s control.

True peace, on the other hand, comes when we set firm boundaries and stand by them, even when it’s uncomfortable or met with resistance.

True peace says, “I deserve better.” Keeping the peace whispers, “I’ll just endure.”

Can You Set Boundaries While Still in the Relationship?

The answer is a resounding yes. Boundaries can and must be set, even if you’re living with the person who violates them.

Here’s how:

1. Know Your Worth: Remind yourself daily of who you are. You are a child of God, a person deserving of love and respect.
2. Be Intentional: Decide what you will and won’t tolerate. Write it down if you need to.
3. Communicate Clearly: Boundaries are not ultimatums—they’re standards. Communicate them clearly and calmly.
4. Follow Through: Boundaries mean nothing if you don’t enforce them. Be prepared to act if they’re violated.

It won’t be easy. You may face resistance, manipulation, or even threats. But standing firm in your boundaries is the first step to reclaiming your power.

When Children Are Involved

Many women stay in abusive relationships for their children. They fear:

• “He’ll turn the kids against me.”
• “He’ll take the children away.”
• “I don’t want my kids to grow up without their dad.”

These fears are valid, but they’re also part of the abuser’s manipulation.

Ask yourself:

• What example am I setting for my children by staying?
• What are they learning about love, respect, and self-worth by witnessing this?

Your children deserve to see you thrive. They deserve to see a parent who values themselves enough to demand better.

Saying “Enough”

There’s a moment in every woman’s journey where she says, “Enough.” Enough enduring. Enough sacrificing. Enough doubting.

When you reach that point, the universe responds. Doors open. Resources appear. Mountains begin to move.

But it starts with you.

My Advice to Every Woman Feeling Trapped

• Remember Who You Are: You are more than a conqueror. You are worthy of love, respect, and joy.
• Set Boundaries: Decide what you will no longer tolerate and stick to it.
• Trust Yourself and God: Believe that you have the strength to overcome and the support to thrive.
• Take Action: Whether it’s leaving, seeking therapy, or finding support, take one step toward freedom today.

The Tools You Need

Breaking free and rediscovering yourself isn’t a journey you have to take alone. That’s why I created the Empowered Woman Unleashed Course—a program designed to help you heal your spirit, empower your mindset, and reclaim your life.

This course provides:

• Practical tools for setting and maintaining boundaries.
• Steps to heal from emotional wounds and rediscover your worth.
• A supportive community of women on the same journey.

You don’t have to stay trapped. Freedom, peace, and joy are within your reach.

This is your year to say “Enough.” To set boundaries. To rediscover the powerful, resilient woman you already are. 

Ready to take the first step? Empowered Woman Unleashed helps you transform your self-doubt into unstoppable confidence with a fearless determination! Check out the Empowered Woman Unleashed Course and start your journey today.

Because true freedom starts with you. 🌟

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