You ask for space.

Sometimes, when we’re dealing with emotional upheaval, we only need to be alone. But when we are in a relationship, it might seem like we are never truly alone, and while this could be a beautiful thing, anything that’s in excess is harming us.

Asking for space could seem to your partner like you are pushing him or her away, even if that’s not what you meant. Space is good, and so is communication, so make sure you let them know that nothing’s changed and that you only need to recharge your individual batteries.

You communicate when something’s not comfortable or right for you.

Your partner could tell a hurtful joke or even cross a physical boundary, and when that happens, you need to learn how to articulate your discomfort right up front.

You need to let them know that you simply won’t tolerate it and that you even have a course of action if that boundary is ever crossed again.

You share gradually, not all at once.

Trust me, it’s perfectly okay to take things slowly, especially if you’re still at the beginning of the relationship. You don’t have to feel pressured to share everything upfront, or even feel that you have to be the first one to open up.

Vulnerability is a mutual thing, and both partners need to check in and create a safe space for sharing.

Vulnerability also goes hand in hand with a couple of boundaries you must have, because you need to know that you can be vulnerable with people you can trust. Otherwise, it’s just oversharing for nothing!