Relationships are built on love, trust, and mutual respect. However, certain bad habits can slowly erode these foundations, creating distance between partners. Identifying and addressing these actions can help mend and strengthen your relationship. Here are 19 behaviors that might be driving your partner away.
Not Listening
According to Forbes, communication is the “key to the overall success and sustainability” of relationships – and listening is a key part of it. If you find yourself frequently interrupting your partner or not paying attention when they speak, it can make them feel unimportant and unheard.
Constant Criticism
Nobody likes to be criticized constantly. If you’re always pointing out your partner’s flaws or mistakes, it can hurt their self-esteem and create resentment. Constructive feedback is necessary, but it should be balanced with positive reinforcement, including focusing on your partner’s strengths and appreciating their efforts.
Lack of Appreciation
Taking your partner for granted can lead to feelings of neglect and unappreciation, which is why it’s so important to acknowledge the little things they do for you and express your gratitude regularly. Simple gestures like saying thank you or surprising them with a small gift can make a big difference.
Poor Communication
Effective communication involves talking, so if you struggle to express your feelings or avoid difficult conversations, it can lead to misunderstandings and unresolved issues. Open and honest communication is vital. Share your thoughts and feelings openly, and encourage your partner to do the same
Neglecting Quality Time
If you’re not spending quality time together, you may not be maintaining a healthy relationship, especially if you’re always busy with work, hobbies, or other commitments – this can make your partner feel neglected. Prioritize your relationship by scheduling regular date nights, weekend getaways, or simple activities.
Disrespecting Boundaries
Every person has boundaries that need to be respected. If you’re constantly overstepping your partner’s personal space or privacy, it can lead to discomfort and tension. Discuss and respect each other’s boundaries. Give them space when needed and avoid being overly intrusive. Respect means trust and harmony in a relationship.
Being Overly Jealous
A little jealousy is normal in relationships, but excessive jealousy can be toxic, such as constantly questioning your partner’s actions, checking their phone, or being overly possessive. Trust is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship, so work on building it back up.
Poor Conflict Resolution
Every couple faces conflicts, but how you handle them makes a difference. If you tend to escalate arguments, resort to name-calling, or bring up past issues, it can lead to unresolved anger and hurt; instead, practice healthy conflict resolution by staying calm, and focusing on the issue at hand.
Being Unreliable
If you frequently break promises, show up late, or fail to follow through on commitments, your partner may feel they can’t depend on you, and reliability is such an important part of trust. Strive to be consistent and reliable by keeping your promises and being punctual.
Ignoring Emotional Needs
Emotional intimacy is as important as physical intimacy, so if you’re not attuned to your partner’s emotional needs, they may feel disconnected and unloved. Be mindful of their feelings and provide emotional support, and also share your own emotions while encouraging them to do the same.
Overuse of Technology
Technology has many benefits, but overuse can harm your relationship if you’re constantly on your phone, checking social media, or playing games; it can create a barrier between you and your partner. Set aside dedicated time to unplug and focus on each other, and limit screen time during meals.
Lack of Physical Affection
An important part of any romantic relationship is physical affection; if you’ve stopped holding hands, hugging, or kissing, it can create a sense of distance. Physical touch releases oxytocin, which strengthens bonds and increases feelings of love. Make an effort to show physical affection regularly, even in small ways.
Being Selfish
Relationships require compromise and selflessness. If you’re always putting your needs and wants first, it can create imbalance and resentment, so you’ll want to be considerate of your partner’s needs and make an effort to prioritize their happiness as well. Acts of kindness and compromise show that you value the relationship.
Holding Grudges
Another bad habit is holding a grudge, particularly past grievances about your partner that can poison your relationship. It’s important to forgive and let go of past mistakes to move forward, as holding onto anger only creates more tension and distance. Practice forgiveness and focus on the positives of your relationship.
Financial Disagreements
Money is a common source of conflict in relationships; if you’re not on the same page financially, it can lead to stress and arguments, which is why you’ll want to have open discussions about finances. You should set mutual goals, and create a budget together for financial transparency.
Neglecting Personal Growth
Even within a couple, personal growth is important for both individuals and the relationship – if you’re not working on self-improvement, it can lead to stagnation and dissatisfaction. Encourage each other’s growth, set personal goals, and pursue hobbies and interests. Personal development will always enhance your well-being and bring new energy.
Lack of Support
If you’re not supportive of your partner’s dreams, goals, or challenges, it can create feelings of loneliness and frustration. You should be their biggest cheerleader, offer encouragement, and help them achieve their aspirations. A supportive partner helps to gain confidence and a stronger, more resilient relationship.
Inconsistent Effort
Consistency is key in maintaining a healthy relationship, and this means both partners need to try, so If your efforts are sporadic, it can create uncertainty. Instead, show your partner that you’re committed by putting in consistent effort through small gestures of love, regular communication, or planned activities.
Not Being Present
One final bad habit to be wary of is whether you’re physically present but mentally absent, which can create a disconnect in your relationship. If you’re always distracted or preoccupied, your partner may feel unimportant. Practice mindfulness and be fully present when you’re together – and don’t forget meaningful conversations.
Up Next: 20 Personal Things You Should Never Share With Others
Building meaningful connections with others requires a certain level of transparency and trust, but that doesn’t mean you have to tell your friends and family members everything! Some aspects of our lives are too personal, incriminating, or risky to share. This article explores 20 aspects of your personal life that you should always keep confidential.
20 Personal Things You Should Never Share With Others
18 Things Everyone Forgets to Include in Their Will—But Shouldn’t
Wills and estate plans are essential ways to ensure what will happen to your belongings and property when you die or are incapacitated. However, people often forget to include important information in their wills before it’s too late, complicating matters for their descendants. Here are the 18 common things people forget to include in their will.
18 Things Everyone Forgets to Include in Their Will—But Shouldn’t
18 Items at Walmart that Aren’t Worth Your Hard-Earned Money
For many of us, Walmart is the go-to superstore. Whether we need groceries, clothing, or technology, Walmart is a one-stop shop for everything you would need. However, there are some Walmart products you should avoid at all costs, such as the following 18 examples.
18 ITEMS AT WALMART THAT AREN’T WORTH YOUR HARD-EARNED MONEY