When you’re in a relationship, even if everything seems to be smooth sailing, it’s important to remember nothing is ever downright guaranteed. As romantic and in-sync as relationships can be, they often come with their fair share of challenges. According to an article from Vice, as relayed by Neon, there are three particularly pivotal periods in a relationship. These are times when it’s crucial to tread carefully to prevent them from becoming breakups.
So, what are these three main periods when couples tend to part ways the most?
The first tumultuous time for your relationship may come after marriage, possibly six months or a year later, when the honeymoon phase comes to an end. This is the period when everything seems wonderful and perfect. Suddenly, the initial magic diminishes, and we start to notice the significant other’s small flaws, making us realize they may not be as flawless as we once thought. Numerous studies have shown that stress, boredom, or merely the harsh reality of life can quickly catch up, gradually extinguishing the initial spark. If the disillusionment is too severe and you can no longer imagine a long-term future with your partner, with their flaws overshadowing your love, it’s likely a sign that your relationship is not destined to last.
If you manage to overcome this sticky period, the next challenging phase typically arises after about three years into the relationship. This infamous ‘three-year itch’ acts as an indicator of how well you manage conflicts with your partner. If your relationship doesn’t sail past this three-year mark, it’s likely because you failed to establish healthy communication dynamics to overcome potential disputes that naturally occur in every relationship.
Lastly, the third juncture when couples are most likely to break up, and therefore when you need to be most vigilant, is during the festive Christmas season. The end-of-year holidays are often accompanied by stress, tension, and anxiety, which could lead to potential conflicts, whose intensity will depend on existing problems within the relationship. If you’re looking to protect your relationship, you may need to be more flexible and willing to compromise during this time.
