5 signs that you should not ignore in your relationship

Every relationship goes through ups and downs; However, there are certain signs that indicate that things are not right and to which you should pay close attention because they are a sign that your love life needs some work.

In case they are familiar to you and you have noticed them for a long time, it is best to act as soon as possible together with your partner and focus on finding the right Balance.

1. Constant and non-constructive criticism

"You always ...", "You never ..."; these phrases, followed by a long list of defects and errors, expressed by the couple after a stumble, is a red flag.

Probably even the tiniest mistake, such as not closing the bedroom door when leaving, triggers a line of criticism that blames the partner.

When we begin to have that type of interaction in the face of conflicts, instead of looking for a way to resolve them and speak assertively, it is an indication that the glass is about to spill.

2. Act with disdain

Does your partner sarcastically, downplay, or make fun of your accomplishments ?; Well, acting with disdain towards the partner causes a feeling of discomfort and contempt that nobody likes to feel.

Usually passive-aggressive, this behavior tends to create or increase the distance between the two, establishing friction in each interaction; each conversation or message becomes the perfect opportunity to intensify said behavior.

In more extreme cases, either party can express themselves and respond abusively; for example, with nicknames or comparisons that are intended to belittle the other, which is very different from funny nicknames to use in your relationship and that they have another intention.

If you, your partner, or both of you find yourself acting that way, pay attention to this sign..

3. Always be on the defensive

A good relationship is one where we can feel in a warm and safe environment. By having an environment of constant tension, that security fades. The level of tension and how it manifests itself can seriously affect the relationship dynamics..

Being always on the defensive indicates that we feel a constant threat from which we must protect ourselves. The defensive attitude can be expressed with excuses of actions or words, denying responsibilities, or responding with an irritable attitude towards almost everything.

4. Impose communication barriers

Crossing our arms, closing all communication and giving a cold look that indicates that the conversation has come to an end, we let the other understand that we do not care about their opinion or intentions..

Although this behavior is more common in men, it also occurs in women.

Intentionally cutting off communication with your partner is a great warning sign, because, with this, you are eliminating one of the most important aspects in the relationship: dialogue.

Such a situation can be frustrating for the other party, feeling that their partner closes emotionally.

Since communication is not only what enables us to solve problems as a couple, but it is also what allows us to get to know each other and share with our special someone, this behavior can significantly damage the relationship.

5. Stop talking about important decisions

Sharing is one of the most relevant aspects as a couple. Although it is true that in a relationship everything is not shared, the healthy thing is to try to maintain a independence and personal privacy, there are certain things that should be discussed as a couple.

A new job, studying for a master's degree in another city or other types of decisions, are usually shared with the loved one, because it is something that means changes for both.

When these important decisions stop talking, the couple is being put aside.

Being independent when in a relationship is different from thinking as if you were single, even with a partner.

What to do when faced with those signs?

As you can see, many of the above signs that you should not ignore in your relationship can be indicators that high tension has existed for a long time. This is not uncommon when having a partner, but if conflicts are avoided, the tension of unresolved problems results in behaviors that express that something is wrong..

Therefore, if you notice these signs in your relationship, take note of the following tips:

• Problems are not avoided, they are solved: learning to see conflicts not as possible threats to the relationship, but as opportunities for growth, is a very important step.
• In the face of a heated discussion, give each other a “time out”: reach an agreement and talk when both of you feel calmer and have a conciliatory attitude.
• When speaking, seek to maintain assertive communication: saying things in time to be said is the best alternative.
• Pride has no place in a relationship: learning to recognize mistakes is important to sincerely apologize and show a true commitment to change.
• By spotting behaviors that are problematic, show commitment and dedication to improving and strengthening the relationship. Learn to discover yourself again and not to let the flame of passion go out. A fairly effective strategy for bringing romance back is through subtle texting to make me miss you or phrases that incite love, you will see the effective results.
• Perhaps the most important tip: Focus on finding solutions, not guilty.

If you think that carrying out the necessary changes to improve your relationship is something very heavy for both of you, do not hesitate to go to a professional who can give you the necessary guidance..

Remember that it is not the end of the world and that these situations can occur in any couple, they are not alone and the help they need is within their reach..