Trust Your Gut—It Will Help Free You from the Exploitative Connection Created by the Abuser
One of the most powerful tools you have in breaking free from an exploitative relationship is something you already possess: your intuition.
Abusers work tirelessly to make you doubt yourself. They gaslight you, rewrite history, and dismiss your feelings so that you stop trusting yourself.
But the truth is, your gut knows. It has known all along.
The Abuser’s Tactics Intended to Make You Doubt Yourself:
Gaslighting: “That never happened.” “You’re imagining things.”
Minimization: “It’s not that bad.” “Everyone has problems.”
Guilt & Obligation: “You owe me.” “After all I’ve done for you.”
Fear: “No one else will love you.” “You’ll never make it on your own.”
When you internalize these messages, you begin to override the very instincts designed to protect you. But you can reclaim them.
Signs Your Gut Has Been Speaking All Along
A feeling of unease, even when things seem “fine” on the surface
A tightness in your chest or stomach when interacting with them
A sense of relief when they’re not around
A recurring thought: This isn’t right.
How to Rebuild Trust in Yourself
Acknowledge the Times You Were Right – Look back at situations where you felt uneasy, and confirm that your instincts were warning you.
Listen to Your Body – Pay attention to physical reactions. Your body often senses danger before your mind rationalizes it away.
Start Small – Begin trusting yourself in low-risk situations so you can rebuild confidence in your intuition.
Remove the Noise – Distance yourself from those who invalidate your reality. Seek support from people who affirm your experiences.
