LADIES ONLY: 5 THINGS YOU DON'T OWE THE MAN YOU ARE DATING

As much as first best impressions matter at the beginning of a relationship, you never let your boundaries slip and you should know when your man is crossing his boundaries in your relationship. As you and your man begin to know each other, there are several things you are meant to overlook and others you are not allowed to let slide which means sticking to your standards at the start of your  relationship is essential, no matter how excited you are about your new romance.

1. You don't owe him an explanation about why you're not married: Being cross-examined about why you're "still" single puts you on the defensive. It makes you feel judged and vulnerable. There are damn good reasons why you're single. Stop telling yourself that being married is OK and being single is not. Whether single by choice or by chance, there's nothing wrong with you. And you don't need to justify where you are in life.
2. You definitely don't owe him sex before you're ready: Just because he wants to have sex with you doesn't mean you have to go through with it. If you feel pressure, either real or imagined, don't do it just to make him happy (or to make him like you). Taking you out and spending his money on you does not equate to purchasing access to your body! Remember, once given, it can't be taken back.
3. You don't owe him monogamy (until it's mutually agreed upon): If a man wants exclusivity from you, even if he's not exclusive with you, the answer is no! It's a simple concept really: don't commit to him more than he's committed to you. When he's truly serious about you he'll agree to monogamy, and if he doesn't, well, he's just not ready.
4. You don't have to drink or do drugs with him: Men who do drugs and drink usually like company, so he'll want you to join him. Know what's right for you and don't change your habits or boundaries to please him. If he says you're ruining his fun or being a prude, it's OK; you're not required to prove your coolness. If his drinking or drugs are an issue for you, take it seriously, otherwise you're playing with fire.
5. You never owe him an apology for being authentically you: If he judges what you eat, what you wear, or how you look ... beware. If he labels your beliefs wrong or silly, think twice. Don't make excuses or justify your choices to a man who doesn't "get you." Be who you are and be proud. Knowing what you don't owe a man hopefully reminds you of what you DO owe yourself. Honor your own boundaries, trust that you know what is right for you, and most importantly, don't change who you are for ANYONE (a man you're dating or otherwise).