Are you in a relationship that’s already on the verge of collapsing, or are you just plodding along in a partnership that’s not going anywhere? Some people would rather be in a bad relationship than be on their own, but it’s not exactly a healthy way to live. So how do you know when it’s really over and move on?
1. A breakdown in communication
A good relationship is built on communication. We need to let our partner know what we need and listen to what they need in order for things to keep moving forward. But when your communication breaks down and you no longer talk about anything “real” this can be the beginning of the end.
2. Arguing all the time
All couples have disagreements at times, but if you’re just moving from fight to fight and not solving any of the core issues this is another sign of a relationship on the way out. When it’s all about trading insults and trying to “win” an argument, or not speaking at all, there’s little chance of the couple getting back to a trusting solid connection.
3. The trust is gone
We all make mistakes, but there are some that can’t be forgiven no matter what we say on the outside. Infidelity is a common example – perhaps the offending partner has apologised and made promises to the other who says that all is forgiven. But in their heart they might find that the trust has gone and they’re questioning everything.
4. Issues don’t get resolved
Maybe the two of you are great at talking about what needs to be done in order to resurrect the relationship. Maybe you even agree on the way forward. But unless both of you are willing to actually walk the walk and make the changes needed, it’s not going to go anywhere. Some people are happy to agree to whatever the other says they need, but they’re not actually willing to change things. In this instance the choice to walk away might be the best option.
5. You’re looking for a way to end it
Sometimes it’s hard to walk away from a relationship that isn’t too bad (but not too great either) unless there is a specific reason. So if you are looking around for a good reason to pull the plug, this is the number one sign that it’s already over. Like a band-aid, sometimes it’s best to just rip it right off and make the call to end the relationship to avoid wasting any more of each other’s time and energy.
Have you ever found yourself stuck in a relationship that was going nowhere? How did you make it out?
This article was written in partnership with Over60.