Every single relationship moves through these five stagesthough not only once.
Here, the five stages of every relationship and how to navigate each one.
It’s a satisfying narrative we see all the time in the movies, TV, and music.
In reality, love is a journey without a final destination.
We made it!"
Because beyond wherever you are now, another hurdle awaits.
In other words, the stages of a relationship are not linear but cyclical.
But they can always find their way back.
They feel they always want to be together, andboundariesoften melt away.
The two seem to merge together, or at least feel eager to do so.
These emotions often drown out the rational part of our brain.
At the same time, be aware of your heightened emotions.
And unfortunately, friction is natural once we run up against each other’s differences.
Power struggles increase, and we marvel at the change in our partner.
Feelings of love mix with alienation and irritation.
Perhaps we’re not “perfect” for each other after all.
As our disappointment escalates, so do our biological responses to stress.
Depending on our personality and circumstances, we may want to fight or to withdraw.
At this point, the skills of conflict management are essential.
Learnhow to deescalate conflictsand face relationship problems head-on while treating each other with care and respect.
The third stage of a relationship is the Disillusionment stage.
Some people become perpetually vigilant, ready to fly into battle at the slightest provocation.
At this juncture, our original experience ofpassionate loveis often a distant memory.
reset the air and create space.
There may be a lot of negative energy in the relationship at this stage.
To offset this, practice showing affection even when upset.
During the Merge, the brain notices only the positive and avoids anything that challenges that view.
In the Disillusionment stage, the brain is zeroing in on all the relationship’s deficiencies.
The things that are going right are ignored; the things going wrong get all our attention.
take a stab at offset that process with an intentionalgratitude practice.
The fourth stage of a relationship is called the Decision because you’re at a breaking point.
So, too, is indifference and remoteness.
You know you’re here when you begin to seriouslycontemplate leavingand even make plans for exiting the relationship.
You may feel ready for an enticing new beginning with a new person.
Doing the work involves understanding your own role in your relationship’s deterioration and committing to real change.
The fifth stage of a relationship is Wholehearted Lovewhen our relationship is at itshealthiest and most rewarding.
In this stage, couples also begin to play together again.
They can laugh, relax, and deeply enjoy each other.
In the meantime, relish the journey.
You’ll have your seasons of strain, and your seasons of wholehearted love.
