Leaving an abusive relationship. Can you flood this post with all the lovely firsts and happy futures you had when you did the same ?

[PennyWhistleSweet]

Leaving a shitty relationship that I've been for ages with two kids. Slow and steady planning. Some days it just feels like it's dragging me down as I'm in the 'hiding the plan and taking calls from DV workers and other professionals every safe day I've given.' Manifesting sounds like a wanky self absorbed ideal, but, I do want to use your experiences to remind me why I'm doing all this. Happy single life with kids experiences here we go...!

So lovely to hear all these stories, the joy and relief is palpable.
Sending strength to all those trapped in abusive relationships. Those on this thread are aware of the enormity and complexity of getting out of them

Hi OP, giving you my best wishes. I've just left a controlling partner and have moved nearly 3 hours away from my home town. I'm currently living temporarily in the city I want to be in (the clues in my username). Still feeling anxious and still waiting for housing to get I touch, but I'm free and can do what I want. No kids though. Go for it. You deserve the life you want for you and your kids ❤️

I didn't really realise I'd been in an emotionally abusive relationship until it was over. Then I realised how many things I was scared to do on my own.
Taking out the bins to the dark alley on bin night was my first one. It sounds silly but I was so proud of myself.

There was a song at the time and a line was "I took out the trash today and I'm on fire." and I thought, "Oh, that's me. I'm a big brave grown up."