April 2, 2025
Dear Survivor,
Have you ever felt swept off your feet by someone’s charm, only to feel uncertain and devalued later? Maybe they made grand gestures early on, but as time went by, those moments of attention became few and far between. This experience might feel confusing or even hurtful, but you’re not alone. What you encountered could be behaviors known as breadcrumbing and love bombing.
I want to share a story that might feel familiar to you or someone you know.
When Mia met Alex, it felt like a whirlwind romance. Alex showered her with gifts, compliments, and promises that painted a picture of a perfect future together. Mia felt special, like she’d finally found someone who truly saw her worth. But as time went on, things shifted.
Suddenly, the calls became less frequent. The sweet messages that once woke her each morning became sporadic. When Mia questioned Alex, he always had a reason: “Work’s been crazy,” or, “You know I care about you.” Yet when Mia tried to pull away, Alex would swoop back in with a grand romantic gesture, keeping her hooked.
What Mia didn’t know was that she was experiencing love bombing followed by breadcrumbing. Love bombing is a tactic often used to gain emotional control, filling someone’s world with excessive affection in order to establish dependency. When the novelty fades or control is gained, breadcrumbing may take its place. This involves just enough attention or affection to maintain an emotional connection, without following through on promises or investing meaningfully in the relationship.
These patterns are not your fault, but recognizing them is a powerful step toward reclaiming your strength. If Mia’s story resonates, know that there are tools and resources to help you understand these dynamics and heal.
Tools to Help You Take the Next Step
- Types of Abuse Worksheet: This free tool breaks down various forms of abuse and helps you identify harmful patterns in relationships.
- Red Flags of Abuse: A quick and free guide to recognizing behaviors like breadcrumbing and love bombing, so you can protect yourself and loved ones.
Every step you take toward understanding and healing brings you closer to thriving. You are worthy of a love that uplifts and cherishes you, not one that confuses or controls.
Remember, reclaiming your strength comes one decision, one resource, and one day at a time.
Blessings and healing,
Empower Others by Sharing
If this story or these resources resonate with you, feel free to share them with others who may need them. Together, we grow stronger.
#HealingJourney #SurvivorSupport #Empowerment #Resilience