Emotional abuse from women

Alright, mate.

I've been thinking about something that needs more attention, mate - the reality of emotional abuse that men face in relationships.

It's a tough topic, but one that affects way more of us than you might think.

I know because I've been there myself, and I've worked with countless men who've experienced the same thing.

The Hidden Reality of Emotional Abuse

When we talk about emotional abuse against men, people often get uncomfortable or dismiss it entirely.

But the truth is, it happens a lot, but is often disguised as "normal relationship problems" or worse, blamed on the man himself.

I remember sitting in a restaurant for 40 minutes, waiting for my ex who hadn't even bothered to properly respond to my messages.

When she finally showed up, she somehow managed to make me feel guilty for being frustrated.

Sound familiar?

The Signs You Might Not Notice

Let me break down some of the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that you might be dealing with emotional abuse:

• That constant knot in your stomach because you're always walking on eggshells, never quite sure if what you say or do will trigger another episode.

• Finding yourself apologizing for literally everything - even if she's the one who showed up an hour late without explanation.

• The way affection becomes a weapon - withdrawn strategically when you don't comply with her unspoken expectations.

• Those brutal silent treatments that can last for days, leaving you frantically analyzing what you did wrong.

• The mind-bending experience of having every issue, every problem somehow become your fault - even the bad meal at a restaurant she chose.

The Deeper Truth About Why We Stay

The reason why some of us end up in these situations isn't just bad luck.

As someone who's been there and now coaches men through this, I've noticed some consistent patterns:

1. The People-Pleaser Trap

   Many of us developed a habit of being "nice guys" - the ones who avoid conflict at all costs and try to keep everyone happy. But this actually makes us perfect targets for emotional manipulation.

2. The Validation Loop

   When we're constantly seeking approval and validation from our partner (often because we didn't get it growing up), we're more likely to accept poor treatment just to get those small doses of affection.

3. The Childhood Echo

   We often unconsciously seek out relationships that mirror our childhood wounds. If you had a critical or distant parent, you might find yourself with a partner who treats you similarly.

Breaking Free

Listen, mate, I won't sugarcoat it - getting out of these patterns isn't easy, but it's possible. Here's what it takes:

• Learning to set proper boundaries - not the weak "I'd prefer if you didn't" kind, but real, solid "this is not acceptable" boundaries

• Developing what I call "healthy selfishness" - starting to put your own well-being first

• Building genuine confidence (not the fake kind we put on to hide our insecurities)

• Getting comfortable with conflict - because sometimes you need to rock the boat to get to calmer waters

• Learning to spot red flags early - so you don't end up deep in another toxic situation

Become A Leader

If you're reading this and thinking "damn, this hits close to home," know that you're not alone.

I've been there, worked through it, and now help other men do the same through my Pleaser to Leader program. It's intensive one-on-one work where we dig deep and rebuild your foundation over 12 weeks.

Here's the thing - whether you work with me or not, the most important step is recognizing what's happening and deciding you deserve better.

Because you do, mate.

You absolutely do.

Ready to make a change? Apply using the link on this page. Let's talk about getting you to where you deserve to be.

Stay courageous,

Oliver

P.S. If you know someone who might need to hear this, feel free to forward this email. Sometimes, just knowing we're not alone can be the first step toward change.

P.P.S. I dive into this in more depth in my latest YouTube video. Check it out here.