The crisis in relationships has two obvious directions for resolution: the couple can either end their existence and part ways, or they can elevate their relationship to a higher level.
Let’s together consider the key signs of toxic relationships — when one partner seeks to suppress the other.
Lack of Support
Time spent together has ceased to be positive or conducive to achieving your goals. Healthy relationships are based on mutual desire to succeed in all areas of life. In toxic relationships, any achievement of partners turns into competition, and the rivalry only grows. Regardless of what happens, everyone is on their own. There is no protection and support for them.
Toxic Communication
Most of your conversations with each other are filled with sarcasm, criticism, or open hostility. You may even start avoiding communication with each other. Hurtful jokes or teasing are only amusing in small amounts.
Envy
While feeling envy from time to time is normal, it can become a problem if you are unable to think positively or feel positive emotions about your partner’s successes.
Behavior Control
Constant questions about where you are or excessive distress over not immediately responding to messages are signs of controlling behavior that can contribute to toxicity in relationships.
Feeling Offended
Toxic relationships are primarily characterized by a process in which you or your partner hold onto grudges and allow them to influence intimate relationships. Over time, disappointment or resentment only accumulates and makes the gap in the relationship much bigger.
Disrespect towards You and Your Feelings
Chronic lateness, “accidentally” forgetting events, and other behaviors demonstrating disrespect for your time are red flags. This includes devaluing your problems and feelings and showing you their disrespect.
Negative Financial Behavior
Your partner may make financial decisions, including buying expensive items or withdrawing large sums of money, without consulting you.
Constant Stress
Periodic tension can arise in any relationship, but constant tension is a sign that something is wrong. Constant stress can affect your physical and emotional health.
Ignoring Your Needs
Doing what your partner wants to do, even if it contradicts your desires or comfort level, is a clear sign of toxicity. For example, you may agree to a vacation that you didn’t plan.
When “No” Becomes a Bad Word
“No” is an important word in any relationship. Don’t erase it from your vocabulary even in the name of love — especially in the name of love. Healthy relationships require compromise, but they also respect the needs and desires of both people. Communicating what you want is as important for you and your relationship as communicating what you don’t want.
A loving partner will respect that you won’t agree with everything they say or do. If you’re only accepted when you say “yes,” it’s probably time to say “no” to the relationship.