The early stages of breaking up aren't as obvious as you thought. They aren't elaborate signs, just everyday thoughts and occurrences that may be a clue that your relationship needs a little help.
If you find yourself saying "whatever" as a response to your partner, it is a sign you may be losing interest. This word is a clue that you're not interested in taking the time to answer them.
Remember the intensity of the first kiss? Remember the nervousness that both of you felt knowing that the kiss was coming? Remember how sensual that moment was, even though the kiss was probably awful! If you're just going through the motions, it may be time to re-evaluate.
If you start to wonder if you're in love, it may be time for inspection. No one can tell you if you're in love or not, but the initial lust of the relationship has worn off, and now it's really time to take a deeper look.
A sign that things are heading downhill is you feel dumb when you hold hands. Holding hands is signifying to everyone else that your partner belongs to you--and vice versa.
If enjoying small moments gets in the way of your schedule, it's time to re-examine your priorities. Small moments create a lifetime with your partner.
If you are defensive, there is usually insecurity about your partner that you didn't realize you had. It may be that you are changing your ways for your partner, or trying to change your partner without realizing it.
Bad-mouthing your partner to your friends, family, and coworkers is never a good sign.
If you think money will solve all your issues and problems with your loved one, there is a greater issue at hand. Stop blaming the money, and start thinking about what the real problem is.
Resentment also leads to bigger problems. "I gave up this for you," is a statement that shows resentment of the person who said it, and stirs up anger in the person receiving it.
Lastly, if all your arguments turn into verbal combat or something worse, then you should think of leaving. If you find yourself saying or receiving words that target your intelligence or appearance, it's time to cut your losses. Quickly.
These are all signals that we have identified with and have all felt in our relationships. The thing to remember is that these signs don't mean that you have a terrible relationship or that you will definitely break up. It just means that it's time for a little introspection.
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