Being in a relationship with someone who has a guarded heart isn't easy. It takes time for them to trust you and they aren't always willing to say what they're thinking. Understanding where they're coming from can help you establish a healthy and loving relationship.
Here are 15 things you need to know when you love someone with a guarded heart:
1. Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Your words don't mean much if they aren't backed up by your actions. Someone with a guarded heart needs to know that you're going to do what you say. They need to know that you're sincere and you keep your word.
2. They'll Show You They Care
If your partner has a guarded heart, it's because they know what it feels like to be hurt. They would never wish the same feeling on someone they care about. If they love you, they'll show it.
3. They Can Make It On Their Own
After being hurt, your partner learned to live life solo. They might invite you along on their adventures, but they don't need you to succeed. They know how to make it on their own.
4. Be Gentle
A person with a guarded heart
can be tempted to run at the first sign of trouble. If your partner is trusting you wit his or her heart, remember to be gentle with it.
5. Be Vulnerable
Be willing to be vulnerable in your relationship. A guarded heart will truly appreciate the openness and honesty. It will allow them to trust you and help facilitate a stronger bond.
6. It's OK To Have Flaws
A partner with a guarded heart will never judge you for your flaws. They will embrace your imperfections, so there's no need to try to hide them.
7. Don't Waste Your Money On Material Gifts
A guarded heart doesn't place value on flowers or jewelry. The mot valuable things you can give is your time. Plan a cozy night in or a simple date night and watch their face light up.
8. Understand Their Courage
When someone has been hurt in the past, opening up to someone new takes extreme courage. When your partner opens up, appreciate their honesty and vulnerability in that moment.
9. Don't Expect Them To Tell You Everything
A person with a guarded heart may never be comfortable telling you absolutely everything. It's important to trust them enough not to ask, and to understand they have a right to keep thing to themselves.
10. Don't Move Too Fast
If you try to move to fast, someone who has been hurt in the past may try to run. If you want the relationship to work, let your partner be the one to set the pace.
11. Be Kind
Asking for help is a huge leap for someone with a guarded heart. If your partner asks for your help, be kind enough to help them without making it a big deal or expecting something in return.
12. Understand The Value Of Trust
Know that you won't be able to earn your partner's trust in a single moment, but you can lose it in one. If you betray their trust, you might never get it back.
13. Let Them Have Their Privacy
Everyone needs along time every once in a while to process their thoughts and emotions. Let your partner have time to recharge without making them feel guilty for it.
14. Understand They Won't Want To Depend On You At First
A person with a guarded heart has learned to rely only on themselves, so depending on you will be difficult at first. Give them time to adjust.
15. Accept Them For Who They Are
We all have our quirks and our flaws. Don't look at a guarded heart as a bad thing. See it as a reason to be more loving, gentle and compassionate.
Sources:
I Heart Intelligence
Elite Daily
The Huffington Post
Lifehack