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There are countless articles and blog posts out there on what signs to look for when deciding whether or not to break up with your significant other. But what about the other side of things? What are the signs that you should not break up with someone?
Just as there can be red flags indicating that it might be time to end a long-term relationship, there can also be warning signs telling you that breaking up is not the right decision. Maybe you should try and make your relationship work.
If you’re on the fence about whether or not to call it quits, read on for some helpful relationship adivce:
1. You still have strong feelings for each other
If you are considering breaking up with your partner, but you still have strong feelings for them, it may not be the right time to call it quits. Yes, relationships require work, and things may not always be easy, but if you still care deeply for each other, then it’s worth putting in the effort. If your feelings have faded and you’re no longer sure if you want to be with them, then it may be time to reconsider things. 1
Maybe you are just going through a phase or a rough patch. Having small fights from time to time is completely normal in any relationship. What matters most is how you handle those disagreements. It would be unfortunate to break up with someone when there’s still a chance things could improve. Especially if you have been together for a long time and you still have feelings for each other.
If you manage to work through your issues, you may find that you are stronger and more in love than ever before.
2. You can communicate openly and honestly
In a strong relationship, both partners feel comfortable communicating openly and honestly with each other about their thoughts and feelings. If your communication is good, you’ll be able to talk about anything, whether it’s something that’s bothering you or a disagreement you’re having. 2
If you’re struggling to communicate with each other, there may be a deeper issue in your relationship. However, there are many ways to improve communication, so it’s worth trying to work on this before making any decisions about breaking up.
Some couples may find it helpful to see a therapist or a relationship expert who can help them learn how to communicate more effectively with each other. Relationship coaches can also be a great resource for couples who want to improve their communication.
3. You share common goals and values
When two people are in a relationship, it’s important that they share common goals and values. If you’re on the same page about big things like your career, family, and where you want to live, it can make your relationship much easier. 3
Of course, you don’t have to agree on everything, but it’s important to be able to compromise and respect each other’s points of view. If you’re constantly arguing about your different goals and values, it may be a sign that you’re not compatible in the long run.
4. You’re still attracted to each other
It’s a good sign when you’re still attracted to each other after the honeymoon phase is over. If you’ve been together for a while and you’re still finding each other attractive, it’s a good sign that your relationship is strong.
It’s normal for the initial excitement of a new relationship to wear off after a while, but if you still have strong feelings of desire and love for your partner, then it’s a good indication that your relationship is worth fighting for.
5. You have the same sense of humor
If you can laugh together and enjoy each other’s company, it’s a good sign that you’re compatible. Sense of humor is one of the most important things in a relationship. If you can make each other laugh, it’s a good indication that you’re on the same wavelength. 4
So if you’re still able to laugh together, despite your disagreements, it’s a good sign that you should stick it out. The issue is probably not as big as you think it is.
6. You’re able to compromise
In any relationship, it’s important to be able to compromise. If you’re always trying to get your own way and you’re not willing to listen to your partner’s point of view, it will eventually lead to arguments and resentment. 5
On the other hand, if you’re able to compromise and meet in the middle, it’s a good sign that you’re willing to work together to make your relationship work. Being able to compromise is crucial when you want to make your relationship last.
In a dead relationship, both partners tend to be stuck in their own ways, and they’re not willing to listen to each other. If you find that you’re always the one who’s giving in, it’s time to have a serious talk with your partner.
7. You’re supportive of each other
A strong relationship is built on mutual respect and support. If you’re always there for each other when things get tough, it’s a sign that your relationship is solid. During tough times, it’s important to be supportive of your partner. If you’re not, it can put a strain on your relationship.
It would be a bad sign if you or your partner were constantly putting each other down. This would be a sign of a toxic relationship. If you’re in a healthy relationship, you should be able to rely on your partner for support.
If you’re breaking up because you don’t feel supported, it might be worth considering whether there are other ways to address the issue. Perhaps you need to communicate better with your partner. Maybe they just need some time to adjust to the situation. If you’re not sure, it might be worth seeking out counseling or therapy together.
8. You have a social life outside of your relationship
This doesn’t mean that you should neglect your partner, but it’s important to have other friends and interests. If you find that you’re always with your partner and you never do anything without them, it might be a sign that you’re too dependent on them. This can put a strain on your relationship, and it’s not healthy in the long run.
It’s important to have time for yourself and to do things that make you happy. It’s also important to spend time with your friends. This will help you stay balanced, and it will prevent you from getting too wrapped up in your relationship.
So there you have it, eight signs that you should NOT break up. Breaking up is a very important decision, and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re still not sure, it might be worth seeking out counseling or therapy together. What’s important is how we learn from our mistakes and grow as individuals.
- Boundaries in Dating: How Healthy Choices Grow Healthy Relationships
- Love in Every Season: Understanding the Four Stages of Every Healthy Relationship
- Love More, Fight Less: Communication Skills Every Couple Needs: A Relationship Workbook for Couples
- Infidelity Recovery Workbook for Couples: Tools and Exercises to Rebuild Your Relationship
- Healthy Me, Healthy Us: Your Relationships Are Only as Strong as You Are
Harasymchuk, C., Muise, A., Bacev-Giles, C., Gere, J., & Impett, E. (2020). Broadening your horizon one day at a time: The role of daily approach relationship goals in shaping self-expansion. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 37, 1910–1926. ↩︎
Shulman, S., Tuval-Mashiach, R., Levran, E., & Anbar, S. (2006). Conflict resolution patterns and longevity of adolescent romantic couples: A 2-year follow-up study. Journal of Adolescence, 29(4), 575–588. ↩︎
Stanley, S. M., Rhoades, G. K., & Whitton, S. W. (2010). Commitment: Functions, Formation, and the Securing of Romantic Attachment. Journal of family theory & review, 2(4), 243–257. ↩︎
HALL, J. A. (2017, March 10). Humor in romantic relationships: A meta-analysis. Personal Relationships, 24(2), 306–322. ↩︎
Lantagne, A., Furman, W., & Novak, J. (2017). Stay or Leave: Predictors of Relationship Dissolution in Emerging Adulthood. Emerging adulthood (Print), 5(4), 241–250. ↩︎
Janet Smith
Janet Smith is a freelance writer who writes about psychology, relationships, and dating. She has always been interested in understanding the human brain and how it affects our …
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