Human relationships are tricky, nuanced, and complicated. All of the complexities, coupled with the emotions that live in relationships, can be hard to navigate. If you are in a situationship, the rules can seem blurry across the board. It can also be confusing to determine if something is wrong and what to do about it. Nevertheless, here is how to navigate the end of a situationship.
There’s an Energy Shift in Your Situationship
Most times, before a situation goes sour, there are subtle and sometimes not-so-subtle warnings about doom ahead. Whether it is a gut feeling, intuition, or a feeling of growing distance, there are usually hints indicating that the end is near. Although the rules of a situationship are relatively loose, you will still notice that things are changing. It may be anything from longer pauses in communication to a general lack of intimacy. Whichever way, one of the early signs is a growing distance.
You’re Not Feeling Up To It Anymore
If you or your partner suddenly start coming up with excuses not to hang out, go out or do things together, then it may be a reflection of the end of the road. Situationships, or relationships, are mostly comprised of spending time together. Whether it is in person or virtually, taking time to connect is a good sign that a situation that is on a good path. On the other hand, not spending time together, and making multiple, increasing excuses for why is not a good sign.
There’s Attraction Outside Your Situationship
Perhaps you have noticed that you are strongly attracted to someone other than your partner. If this happens in a way that makes you realize that you and your current partner may not be compatible, it may be time to reassess. If this is a consistent reality for you, then that may be a strong indication that you are not fully fulfilled in your current “relationship.” The first thing to do is discuss things with your partner and determine the next steps. If, on the other hand, your significant other is the one with the prolonged affection for a third party, it is also worth reevaluation.
You’re Growing Differently, And Apart
The reality is that very often, people grow and evolve. For a situationship or relationship, you may not be the same person your partner initially met. People often grow apart, begin to see life differently, and change their perspectives. Unfortunately, this can disrupt the cadence of a relationship.
Your “Special Friend” Is Lying More
Suppose your partner is telling half-truths or mistruths about what they have been doing, where they are, or other pertinent details, that is a red flag. Both relationships and situationships are able to thrive because both partners can be blatantly honest. Once honesty becomes a scarce commodity, it’s time to chuck the deuces.
You Are Lying More
Whether sneaking in and out of town without telling your partner or lying about your plans, that is a warning sign of impending doom. Couples can often forgive white lies here and there, but honesty and transparency are the bread and butter of co-existence. If you lie to you SO perpetually, it’s time to ask yourself why.
Your “Special Friend” Gets On Your Nerves More
The start of most relationships is usually new and exciting. It is easy to find whatever your partner says to be humorous or cute, but when they annoy you more frequently, there is a reason. Relationships are not meant to always be rosy, but when the thorns show themselves more regularly, that is not a good sign.
The Silence Is Loud
Although arguing can be uncomfortable, it is a good thing for couples to do it once in a while. If you don’t agree with something your man or woman does, it’s okay to speak up about it. When you or your partner begin to fight silent wars instead of speaking up and clearing things, that is the fastest way for resentment to set in, and it is a telltale sign that you’re emotionally done with each other.
The Fights Are Nasty
Fighting fair is the key to every relationhsip-situationship dynamic. If you notice that you and your special friend consistently hurl nasty words at each other frequently or hit below the belt, it’s time to move on.
Things in the Situationship Aren’t Changing
Everyone has one or two vices that they are not proud of. If your partner shows consistently that they are not willing to change whatever bad behavior they have that bothers you, don’t try to change them if you can’t live with it. Instead, leave. If your SO is also dismissive and condescending when you bring up a genuine concern, it indicates an underlying lack of respect, and that is time to move on.