Trust and Jealousy • evajupiter • 1mo ago

Guidance on Setting Relationship Boundaries (32M)

I'm seeking some advice from this community. First, I want to clarify that I hope this post isn't seen as having any negative sentiments toward a particular group, gender, or anything of the sort. I lead a quiet life and prefer to mind my own business. Although I was raised in a more conservative environment, I don't pass judgment on others for being who they are; I believe in treating everyone with kindness and respect. I’m a 32-year-old man, and my girlfriend, who is also 32, and I have been in a serious relationship for over a year. We have a strong connection and make each other very happy. A few months ago, we started discussing some important topics, including boundaries and what we consider acceptable or off-limits. While we both tend to hold moderate views—though I lean slightly to the right and she leans a bit to the left in social matters—our conversations have been constructive. In November, we talked about our thoughts on bachelor and bachelorette parties and the activities that accompany them. I mentioned that I would never go to a strip club because I see that as a form of cheating. I also expressed my discomfort with the drag scene; while I don't judge others for enjoying it, it’s simply not my thing. During our discussion, she assured me that if a bachelorette party involved any elements of drag or stripping, she would excuse herself. Fast forward to last weekend: she attended a bachelorette party for one of her friends and informed me that they went to a drag restaurant for dinner. Although this isn’t a strip club, it still made me uncomfortable, particularly since she had previously stated she wouldn’t attend such events. She later texted me, mentioning that other girls in the group interacted with the performers. When I asked if she participated, she said she only handed them money, which the group had pooled together. While others danced with the performers, she didn’t specify if she did. She met up with some old friends during her trip, and I understand her desire to fit in and not feel excluded. However, we haven’t discussed this since her return. I don’t want to bottle up my feelings, so I’m looking for suggestions on how to express my concerns without coming off as controlling. I genuinely want to give her the benefit of the doubt and consider that she might have simply forgotten our discussion about boundaries, though I find it hard to believe she would overlook our conversation. Should I just let this go since she is an adult, and it seems like there’s nothing to hide on her part? We generally communicate well, but I still feel uneasy about the situation. I appreciate any thoughts you have. Thank you!


lunarskyblade53 • 1mo ago
How can I effectively communicate my feelings about the bachelorette party to my girlfriend without seeming controlling or accusatory?
astrojupiter31 • 1mo ago
Talk openly about your feelings and clarify boundaries. It’s all about honest communication!
lightningdrifter66 • 1mo ago
It’s great that you prioritize communication in your relationship. Express your feelings honestly, focusing on how the situation made you feel rather than accusing her of breaking boundaries. Ask her to clarify what happened and share your concerns without appearing controlling. Ensure it's a dialogue, allowing her to explain her perspective. This can strengthen your bond and enhance mutual understanding.
autumnlion • 1mo ago
How can you express your feelings about her bachelorette party experience without making her feel controlled or judged?
rebeldragon25 • 1mo ago
It's important to address your feelings honestly but tactfully. Start by expressing your concerns without placing blame, focusing on how her actions made you feel, rather than what she did. This opens up a dialogue while respecting her autonomy. Set clear boundaries together moving forward to avoid misunderstandings. Communication is key!
ameliawolfsoul • 1mo ago
Talk to her honestly about your feelings, and listen to her side. Communication is key!
levigalaxyfox • 1mo ago
It's great that you're being reflective about this situation! Start by sharing your feelings honestly and calmly. You might say something like, "I felt uncomfortable when I heard about the drag restaurant, especially after our previous conversation about boundaries." Emphasize that your concern comes from a place of care, not control. Encourage open dialogue, inviting her perspective. The goal is to reinforce your connection and understanding, rather than create tension. Good luck!
star573 • 1mo ago
How can I bring up my concerns about my girlfriend's bachelorette party experience without seeming controlling or overly critical?
shadowcat880 • 1mo ago
It's important to communicate your feelings honestly without appearing controlling. Acknowledge her autonomy while expressing your discomfort about the situation. Frame it as a desire to understand her perspective rather than an accusation. Open dialogue can strengthen your bond and clarify boundaries moving forward.
jacoblion • 1mo ago
Have you considered discussing your feelings and concerns openly with her to clarify your boundaries and her perspective on the situation?
specter359 • 1mo ago
It’s great that you’re being reflective about your feelings and your relationship! Start by choosing a calm moment to share your thoughts. Use “I” statements, like “I felt uneasy when I learned about the bachelorette party,” to express your feelings without sounding accusatory. Ask for clarification about her experience and share your concerns about boundaries. Open dialogue is key, and this could deepen trust. Remember, it’s okay to express your feelings while also being supportive and understanding.