Break ups are never easy, whether or not you’re the one who initiates. It doesn’t matter if it’s been a long time coming or you and your partner have fallen out really badly. Saying goodbye to someone who has been a big part of your life is painful, and sometimes, making that first move is the hardest part.
At the end of the day, it’s all about trusting your gut. But if you still aren’t sure if you’re ready to take the plunge, here are a few things that may indicate that it’s time for you and your partner to break up.
You’ve Grown Apart
Changing is healthy, but when you’re in a relationship, you need to ensure that you and your partner are growing together and moving in the same direction. You shouldn’t resist becoming the person you want or need to be – even if it means your relationship no longer makes sense.
Likewise, holding onto hope that your partner is going to change simply isn’t the answer.
Your Arguments have Become Toxic and aren’t Constructive
Arguing isn’t necessarily a bad thing – some insist that it’s a healthy part of every relationship. If your arguments are centred on important issues and you feel like both of you are sincerely trying to find a solution, then you’re on the right track.
But as soon as objective becomes simply winning or hurting the other person, you may need to consider the future of your relationship.
The Relationship is One Sided
Just because your partner doesn’t necessarily show you how much they care in the ways you expect doesn’t mean that they don’t.
However, if you really think that one of you is significantly more invested in the relationship and is the only one trying to make it work, it may be time to move on.
You Struggle to Communicate
When it comes to being in a healthy relationship, communication is everything. If it feels like you aren’t communicating or consistently struggle to do so effectively, you need to have a conversation about it.
You Compromise Your Own Values
Relationships are all about compromise – to a certain extent. However, when it comes to sacrificing your values and consistently giving up on things that are important to you, you’re no longer in a healthy relationship.
You’re Simply Not Happy
Relationships ebb and flow – you go through good times and difficult times. However, if you feel like you really just aren’t happy together anymore, it’s probably time to cut ties.
It May be Time to Break Up
Like background music in some MasterCard pokies, often ignored by some players, it’s easy to ignore that little voice in the back of your head that’s telling you that something just isn’t right. Knowing that your relationship has passed the point of no return is difficult, and there is no single indicator to look out for that’ll give you all the answers.
However, these things are some of the most basic red flags, and if you think that they’re true for your relationship, it may be time to have a difficult conversation with your partner.