Women are often taught to give people the benefit of the doubt, especially in dating—but that mindset can cost you time, energy, and emotional peace. When someone is inconsistent, distant, or showing signs that they’re not all in, it’s time to stop making excuses. Pay attention to how they show up and trust yourself to walk away if things aren’t moving in the direction you want. Read on for more!

Dating can stir up all kinds of “what if” questions—What if the age gap becomes a problem? What if I never fit into his life with his kids? What if he starts drinking again?

The truth is: you don’t know, and you can’t know. Relationships don’t come with guarantees. Read on to learn how to stop overanalyzing the future and start making empowered dating decisions right now.