Some people grow up seeing healthy relationships modeled by their caregivers. They may see parents or guardians have healthy, secure partnerships, or perhaps they have siblings or other family members who communicate healthfully and maintain boundaries. But not all of us have that experience.

If you didn't have that experience, rest assured you are not somehow doomed to be alone or that you'll fail at love. Not having a healthy example of what a relationship can look like just means that you have the freedom of being open to whatever that means to you, without the boundaries of preconceived notions set in front of you. You get to decide how you want to love someone, and what needs you want to be met in a relationship.

If you'd like to get an idea of what healthy relationships look like, you can read blogs, listen to podcasts, chat with friend, and of course - ask yourself what YOU want! Follow your heart, communicate, respect yourself and your partner, be honest, open, and trust yourself. Don’t be afraid to see a professional to help sort out your feelings about having a relationship, or problems you might come across. It’s normal to be timid of the unknown, but you’ve got this! Always remember to love yourself first and loving another person will come when you are ready.