You are dating a new person that you really like.  This could be the one or it could be too good to be true.  In time you lose trust, i.e. you don’t feel emotionally safe in the relationship.  You start defensive tactics without a clear idea of what is going on.  You get suspicious when he or she breaks a date and drive by the house to see if the car is there or if an unknown car is there. You feel threatened but no real evidence and you consider breaking off the relationship rather than be taken advantage of.  You hesitate for fear making a mistake. If this is a familiar pattern in your dating history, work on your self-esteem.

1. Don’t be distracted by your false pride.  False pride is an illusion of self-worth by feeling “better than.”  Don’t look for their weakness while hiding yours.  An increase in self-esteem relieves the need for false pride.
2. Don't make assumptions with little data to go on.  Be patient until the facts are revealed.
3. Don't get impulsive (I will get rid of you to avoid you hurting me) and mess up something that might prove good later on.
4. The decision to continue dating is made by deciding if you enjoy sending time with him or her.
5. When you suspect dating communications are manipulations, treat him or her with respect until,  or if, the truth is revealed.
6. Ask yourself about dating decisions, "Will I respect myself more or less if I follow this decision?"
7. Relax and don't expect more than he or she offers.  The relationship may not continue at some point but you can look back on it as enjoyable while it lasted and “I handle my part of it with dignity.”
8. Don’t fear dating.  Whatever the outcome, you will learn from the practice.
9. It is important to grieve if you are “dumped” in a relationship.  Grieving helps you drop resentment sooner.