Sometimes we need to concede defeat in relationships.

Sometimes, when we throw in the towel, a new relationship is given the chance to form and grow.

When we admit that a relationship is not working, we are really just accepting the reality of what is, and acknowledging that what we hoped “could have been” really wasn’t ever going to happen.

Acceptance is truly the path to enlightenment and happiness.

When we finally accept the limitations in our relationships, and we allow ourselves to be okay with how we relate to others and how they relate to is in return, we stop expecting those people to change…

We stop letting them hurt us.

It’s amazing how this bit of acceptance can sometimes actually give way to a more healthy and profound relationship with the same person…

Only different.

They may never give you want you originally wanted, they may never fill the void you desperately hoped they would fill, but they may just end up becoming a positive addition to another area in your life you didn’t realize was wanting.

When you change the terms of a relationship, you are given the opportunity to re-evaluate and take inventory of your needs and your expectations.

Lowering your expectations of someone based on a change in the terms of the relationship does not necessarily mean lowering your standards.

Keep your standards high.

In fact, you should never lower your standards, especially in how you let people treat you. But lowering your expectations of certain people can allow them to be a part of your life, but only so long as they bring value to you.

If they no longer bring value and no longer positively affect your life, they are no longer worthy of your time and consideration.

Accept that others are who they are and never let go of your standards.

Some people will enter and leave your life because they could not (or would not) meet your expectations, but if they do not meet and/or respect your standards…

Show them the door.