Relationships are never easy! Complicated relationships, in which one or both partners doubt the other’s loyalty and love- are exponentially harder.
One of the most difficult moments of my life was when my partner told me they not only weren’t in love with me anymore but probably had never loved me the way they thought they did. My entire world was shattered, and honestly, in hindsight, I can’t believe I never noticed the signs. For couples struggling with communication, considering relationship communication guides can sometimes offer helpful strategies.
1. They start avoiding you.
No matter how much you may try to meld your schedules together, or find activities you enjoy doing together- they always have an excuse to not be with you. Even if you live together, you may notice them noticeably trying to be different from you or striving to pull away from you in various subtle ways.
2. You no longer seem to be appealing to them.
When you initiate physical intimacy together, they try to avoid it at all costs. Where there was once a major spark, you now feel as though you are in bed with a stranger. Rekindling the spark might be challenging, but not impossible. Looking into self-help books or tools designed for couples might help.
3. They subtly put you down, or try to change you.
In the past, you may have been everything to them, and more. Now, it seems that no matter how hard you try-your best just simply isn’t good enough. In fact, they will often attempt to change you into someone else, as a last attempt at making things work. However, when it reaches this point, you can’t change yourself to be the ideal person for someone, who supposedly loved you before, as your same ole’ self.
4. They treat you like you are replaceable.
In relationships, we should never believe our partner is dispensable or replaceable. And if your partner constantly reminds you that you are worth a dime a dozen, it’s time to end things. It may hurt now, but doing this will avoid much pain.
5. They don’t respect you.
When you love someone, you treat them with respect. If you find yourself begging someone to respect your needs, boundaries, and general existence, then it is likely they don’t care about you the way they should.