Picture provided by: Dave Webb Via Unsplash
All relationships reach rough patches where things just do not feel right for some time. You say, “I feel like my partner does not love me anymore” and you are not alone. Therapists all over the world have heard it thousands of times, and it is a pretty common feeling that both men and women often feel in dying relationships. How do you know that this feeling is a warning sign or if it is simply in your head?
Take a deep breath, take a step back, and analyze your position before you update your relationship status to single. There are red flags to look out for and if you notice these obvious signs then it might be time to call it quits or seek couples therapy. Below, stellar-advice.com will list 5 warning signs.
There Is A Lack of Intimacy
First, let us define what intimacy is. Intimacy refers to a shared closeness, attachment, and rapport. You can have an emotionally intimate relationship but lack sex. Likewise, you might have a sexually charged relationship without real closeness, and couples usually associate intimacy with either of those things. Usually, the lack of sexual or emotional intimacy is what makes couples feel abandoned. However, in this sub-category, we are only going to talk about true intimacy. Intimacy should allow you and your partner to feel: safe, trusting, open, autonomous, present, and mutuality.
We Do Not Have Sex
This is a common sexual problem that most couples go through, but does not necessarily mean that your spouse does not love you anymore. Sexual arousal can come and go, or fade over time as we age in long-term committed relationships. If your spouse is avoiding your touch, doesn’t engage in public displays of affection, or avoids cuddling and other intimate times with you, then there is something very wrong.
Your S/O Does Not Spend Quality Time With You Anymore
When your partner used to make time for you and then suddenly becomes busy, it can be a red flag (but not always). Couples can be pretty busy with work and other distractions like family, friends, or hobbies, and they do not get to spend much time together. It is important to make time for each other even in these hectic lifestyles to keep the relationship alive. Try to plan for date nights or activities you can do together at times that suit everyone in the relationship’s schedules. If your significant other keeps making excuses or prefers to hang out with friends, it might be time to start moving on.
Your Partner Has No Plans With You For The Future
In a committed relationship, partners usually make long-term plans. These plans can include moving in together, buying an apartment together, getting a pet together, or considering marriage one day. There is nothing wrong if the two of you are not ready for those things. The key is that it has to be mutual. If that is not the case, then it is a different story. You may love each other at the moment, but do you love each other enough to allow it to progress forward? If not, then that is a red flag.
Your S/O Acts Seductively Around Others
According to Ashley Papa’s “Is Your Partner Too Flirty With Other People? Here’s What to Do | StyleCaster“, she gives some advice on handling the situation. According to Stellar-advice.com, this can be a red flag. Your partner may argue that they are naturally flirty and do love you. However, it is one of the classic signs of disrespect and boredom in the relationship. If it bothers you, should you accept it? Of course not! If your partner cannot honor that, you should rethink your relationship.
Final Thoughts
The worst thing you can do at this point is to copy your partner’s behavior in return. If you are serious about your relationship then you should talk about seeing a relationship expert or get couples therapy. If your partner refuses then it might be better to move on and start dating again.