What are the early signs that a relationship might be failing, and how can I recognize them?

Early signs of a failing relationship include a **lack of enthusiasm or care** for the relationship (relationship apathy), **intentional distance**, where partners avoid spending time together, and a **deliberate lack of physical or emotional intimacy**. [1, 2] These signs, especially when combined, indicate a potential deterioration of the relationship.

How does a lack of planning for the future with my partner indicate that we might be falling out of love?

When couples no longer factor each other into their future plans, it suggests a **significant shift in their commitment** and shared vision. [2] This lack of future planning, such as not discussing travel plans, family goals, or other life events together, is a strong sign that the relationship is on shaky ground.

Is it normal for couples to experience a lack of intimacy, and when does it become a problem?

While relationships naturally evolve, a sudden or deliberate **reduction in intimacy**, whether physical, emotional, or both, is a cause for concern. [2] When expressing love is no longer a priority, it can indicate a decline in the emotional connection between partners, which can be a signal that the relationship is deteriorating.

How does disrespect in a relationship relate to the feeling of falling out of love?

**Frequent displays of disrespect and resentment** are strong indicators that the love once shared is fading. [3] When mistakes become habitual and disrespect is casually tossed around, it suggests a lack of care for the other partner's feelings, marking a serious issue in the relationship.

If I notice these signs, is the relationship over, or is there still hope?

While these signs are worrying, they do not necessarily mean the end of the relationship. With **reflection and a mutual desire to change**, couples can still work towards a positive future. [4] Effort and a commitment to address the issues are crucial for rekindling the relationship.

The Signs of Falling Out of Love

Two lovers with sad expressions on their facesTwo lovers with sad expressions on their faces

A gap growing between a couple may be them falling out of love

Boy meets girl. It’s a tale as old as time. As a familiar rhyme goes: first comes love, second comes marriage, then they come with the baby carriage.

Yet, real life shows that it doesn’t always end there. Separation happens next for many couples, followed by divorce. Of all the reasons why this happens, it is the plainest one, falling out of love, that gets the least amount of attention.

It’s scary to think about, and yet, it is a common occurrence. If prevention is preferable to a cure, then it pays to know the signs that you or your partner is about to fall out after falling so deeply in love.

Here are some of the most common signs to watch out for:

Relationship Apathy

When we get into a new relationship, it’s natural for us to care deeply about it and our partner. Oftentimes, our feelings even border on obsessiveness. Once it gradually flips over to the other side of the spectrum, that’s when we need to worry. Remember that this lack of care and enthusiasm can become permanent if we aren’t careful.

Intentional Distance

Unless hampered by a long-distance relationship, new couples often can’t resist being around each other regularly. That’s why it can be so jarring to see couples not only stay away for long periods later, but doing so intentionally. While a bit of space is healthy, making no effort to spend time together can be another worrying sign.

Deliberate Lack of Intimacy

This can be either physical, emotional, or both. The need for couples to express their love in as many ways as possible is a benchmark of a thriving relationship. Once this ceases, either on purpose or through the lack of desire to try, then a couple can say that they’ve reached another milestone in their relationship’s deterioration.

Reduced or No Plans at All for the Future

No couple deep in love with each other harbors no plans for themselves. It’s natural to dream about even more happy days, months, and years together. Even if a couple has yet to fall completely out of love, not factoring each other in their future plans means that their relationship is already on shaky ground, making this a dire cause for concern.

Frequent Displays of Disrespect

People make mistakes, but when mistakes become habitual, then you’ve got to start looking at the bigger picture present. Disrespect and resentment, particularly when frequently and casually tossed around, are simple but telling signs that the love you once shared is no longer in the air.

Any one of these signs are worrisome on their own. Once piled atop one another, then the deterioration of any relationship is practically assured. It can be easy to despair and start thinking of exit strategies if you ever reach this dire point. Yet, take heart in the fact that, as bleak as things are, they aren’t irreversible.

Falling out of love does not have to signal the definite end of a relationship. Effort is the glue that holds everything together, after all. With enough reflection and mutual desire to enact change, then couples can still hold out pragmatic hope for their relationship’s future.