When to End a Long Term Relationship

Long-term relationships can bring happiness, fun and experience to your life. However, not all relationships are meant to last. Breaking up after a long-term relationship has run its course is never fun, but often necessary to move on with your life. Understand when to end a long-term relationship is vital for anyone stuck in a monotonous relationship.

Are you constantly fighting with your partner over trivial topics?

Fighting over trivial topics, such as your partner didn't make the bed in the morning, didn't make morning coffee, or didn't understand a non-verbal signal are clear warning signs of a stalling relationship. When we fight with our significant other over trivial topics, it could be a sign of following the same routine and loss of the initial spark that kept the relationship alive in the beginning. In my own relationships, I have had fights over useless topics, such as being five minutes late to dinner, not understanding her particular mood and not doing a particular chore that I was supposed to do. These fights are normal in every relationship, but when they get to the point of being unbearable to you and your partner, it may be time to move on.

Do your value systems fail to align?

A common reason that long-term relationships fail is because of different value systems. Do you a sound financial strategy that you want to follow, or do you have a certain ideal system you want to instill on your children? This is great if you are planning, but if your partner does not share the same values, it will spell trouble for you in the future.

Do you have significantly different life goals?

Ever since I was about five years old, I wanted to go to college for business and becoming the best in my field. Since I am only in my 20's I have been doing everything I can in order to achieve my lifelong goal. However, in a long-term relationship we tend to push aside our childhood goals in order to settle. This is not always a good thing because when you are older, divorced or separated; you will look back and wish you pursued these goals. Having different life goals is not a relationship killer, but be sure not to sacrifice what makes you happy for a relationship.

Are you no longer attracted to your partner?

Attraction in not everything in a long-term relationship, but it sure does help to keep the spark going. If your partner started to gain weight, does not take care of him or herself, or dresses down it may be a sign to move on. Of course, these issues are fixable if both you and your partner wish to address whatever issue caused you to lose attraction. However, sometimes we are no longer attracted to our partner because of the failed emotional connection. In this case, it is best to move on and find someone you are more compatible with.

Has your happiness faded over time?

Your happiness is the most important factor to consider when choosing to stay or leave your partner. If you are no longer happy with the relationship, it makes no sense to continue with it simply to avoid heartbreak. Try going on romantic dates to get the initial spark back. However, if you cannot get the spark and happiness back, it may be best to end the relationship altogether.