It is natural for relationships to require compromise, but you should never feel as though your voice has disappeared. When one partner consistently makes all the decisions, controls the narrative or sidelines the other person’s needs, it can create an unhealthy imbalance. If you often feel unheard or overlooked, the following signs may reveal that you have little or no influence in your relationship.
1. Your opinions are dismissed
When you share your thoughts, they are waved aside, mocked or treated as unimportant. Instead of engaging with your ideas or feelings, your partner may shut you down or only value their own point of view. Over time, this can make you question your judgment.
2. You have no input in important decisions
Where to live, how to spend money, plans for the future or even simple day-to-day choices are made without your involvement. You may only find out what has been decided after everything is settled. This is a clear sign that your contribution is not being considered.
3. You walk on eggshells
If you often hold back from expressing your needs in order to avoid conflict, criticism or emotional withdrawal, it may indicate that your partner has too much power over your emotional comfort. Communication should not feel like a risk.
4. You feel guilty for wanting basic respect
When asking for fairness makes you feel demanding or unreasonable, it may mean your partner has created a dynamic where their needs matter more than yours. Healthy relationships allow both people to ask for support without fear.
5. You second-guess yourself
If you frequently doubt your perception or choices because your partner constantly corrects, questions or belittles them, you may be experiencing subtle control. This can erode your confidence and leave you feeling dependent on their approval.
6. You are excluded from social or family decisions
Your partner manages invitations, plans and communication exclusively, leaving you out of key interactions. This can make you feel invisible and unimportant in your own relationship.
7. Everything feels one-sided
You find yourself giving more time, energy and compromise while receiving little understanding in return. When only one person bends, and the other stands firm, the imbalance grows.
What you can do
1. Acknowledge your feelings
The first step is recognising that something is not working. Your discomfort is valid and deserves attention.
2. Communicate clearly
Choose a calm moment to express how their behaviour affects you. Use specific examples and focus on how it makes you feel rather than accusing them. Healthy partners will want to listen and adjust.
3. Set boundaries
Be clear about what you will no longer accept. Boundaries are not threats. They are a way of protecting your emotional space. For example, you may state that decisions affecting both of you should not be made without your involvement.
4. Rebuild your confidence
Reconnect with hobbies, friends and activities that make you feel strong and independent. The more grounded you feel, the easier it becomes to speak up.
5. Seek support
Talking to a trusted friend or a counsellor can help you gain clarity and learn healthier communication patterns. Professional support can also guide both partners if you choose couples counselling.
6. Evaluate the relationship honestly
After expressing your needs and setting boundaries, pay attention to how your partner responds. If they refuse to listen, change or respect you, you may need to consider whether the relationship still serves your well-being.